hygroscopic
|hy-gro-scop-ic|
C1
/ˌhaɪɡrəˈskɒpɪk/
moisture-absorbing
Etymology
Etymology Information
'hygroscopic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'hygros,' meaning 'wet' or 'moist,' and 'skopein,' meaning 'to look at.'
Historical Evolution
'hygros' combined with 'skopein' in Greek to form 'hygroskopos,' which eventually became the modern English word 'hygroscopic.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to look at moisture,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having the ability to absorb moisture.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having the ability to absorb moisture from the air.
Salt is a hygroscopic substance, which is why it clumps in humid conditions.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/03/11 12:03