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desalination

American  
[dee-sal-uh nay-shuhn] / diˌsæl ə ˈneɪ ʃən /

noun

  1. Chemistry. the intentional removal of salt from something, especially seawater, by any of various means, often reverse osmosis.


desalination British  
/ diːˌsælɪˈneɪʃən /

noun

  1. the process of removing salt, esp from sea water so that it can be used for drinking or irrigation

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • desalinator noun

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The proposal also urges restoring “normal passage” through the Strait of Hormuz and safeguarding civilian sites and critical infrastructure, including energy, desalination and power facilities, as well as peaceful nuclear infrastructure.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

The region has become the fastest growing market for electric cars, and China is also the largest investor in desalination in the Middle East, where potable water is scarce.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

These tube-like materials can strengthen polymers and metals or guide the movement of ions in batteries and desalination systems with far less resistance.

From Science Daily • Mar. 31, 2026

Relying on desalination, the San Diego County Water Authority will consider transferring water to cities in Arizona and Nevada that soon will face cuts in Colorado River water.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 20, 2026

Meanwhile, on the other side of Pacific Coast Highway, on the long strip of Huntington Beach, frustrated crowds waiting for desalination machines have begun to take notice of his truck.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman