degradable

American  

[dih-grey-duh-buhl] / dɪˈgreɪ də bəl /

adjective

1. susceptible to chemical breakdown.

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degradable British  

/ dɪˈɡreɪdəbəl /

adjective

1. (of waste products, packaging materials, etc) capable of being decomposed chemically or biologically See also biodegradable

2. capable of being degraded

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degradable Scientific  

/ dĭ-grā′də-bəl /

1. Relating to a compound that breaks down into simpler compounds by stages. During the degradation of a degradable compound, well-defined intermediate products are created.

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Other Word Forms

• degradability noun

Etymology

Origin of degradable

First recorded in 1960–65; degrade + -able

Example Sentences

A better understanding of processes such as these also holds potential for the development of future medical products or for the production of naturally degradable materials.

From Science Daily • May 13, 2024

You will find degradable pots made from a variety of materials.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 24, 2024

Mr Greer said these often say they are degradable, but this process takes about 500 years.

From BBC • Dec. 5, 2022

We have magnetic nanoparticles fully degradable in the body.

From New York Times • Jan. 24, 2018

If any degradable compostable items remain intact — thick cornstalks or cabbage stems, perhaps — just toss them back onto the compost pile and give them another year.

From Washington Post • Nov. 29, 2016