aquifuge
|a-qui-fuge|
/ˈæk.wɪ.fjuːd/
keeps water away
Etymology
'aquifuge' originates from Latin elements 'aqua' and 'fugare' (or Neo-Latin formation), where 'aqua' meant 'water' and 'fugare' meant 'to drive away' or 'to put to flight'.
'aquifuge' appears as a Neo-Latin/technical coinage formed from Latin roots (e.g. Neo-Latin 'aquifugus') and entered English usage as a technical term for waterproofing substances and properties.
Initially it meant 'that which drives away water' (a material or agent that repels water); over time it has retained this specialized meaning as a noun and adjective referring to waterproofing or water-impervious properties.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a substance or agent that repels, excludes, or prevents the penetration of water; a waterproofing material.
They applied an aquifuge to the masonry to prevent moisture penetration.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
impervious to water; not allowing water to pass through (waterproof).
The aquifuge coating made the roof impervious to rain.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/30 05:26