disposable

[ dih-spoh-zuh-buhl ]

adjective

1. designed for or capable of being thrown away after being used or used up:

   disposable plastic spoons; a disposable cigarette lighter.

2. free for use; available:

   Every disposable vehicle was sent.

noun

1. something disposable after a single use, as a paper cup, plate, or napkin.

disposable

/ dɪˈspəʊzəbəl /

adjective

1. designed for disposal after use

   disposable cups

2. available for use if needed

   disposable assets

noun

1. something, such as a baby's nappy, that is designed for disposal
2. plural short for disposable goods

Derived Forms

• disˌposaˈbility, noun

Other Words From

• dis·posa·bili·ty dis·posa·ble·ness noun
• dis·posa·bly adverb
• nondis·posa·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disposable¹

First recorded in 1645–55; dispose + -able

Example Sentences

There was the 1997 Asian financial crisis, a period of such belt-tightening that South Koreans were ordered to donate their gold to the government and had no disposable income to spend on rides or concessions.

From Los Angeles Times

Separately, the government has already said that single-use disposable vapes will be banned in England and Wales from June 2025.

From BBC

A ban on the sale of single-use disposable vapes from next June in England and Wales has already been announced.

From BBC

Say goodbye to disposable plastic utensils and picnic while also respecting Mother Nature.

From Los Angeles Times

However, Ejikeme believes this is changing as more Africans gain disposable income, they are increasingly investing in decorating their homes in a way that tells their personal story and captures their experiences.

From BBC

Related Words

• superfluous
• unimportant