Meaning & Definition of word "Potable"

Potable

/ˈpoʊtəbl/

adjective:

  • 1. Safe and fit for drinking; drinkable.
    • Example: The water from the new filtration system is now potable.
  • 2. Suitable for consumption, specifically regarding liquids.
    • Example: Only potable water should be served to children.
  • 3. Referring to beverages that are safe to drink, particularly in a public context.
    • Example: The local authorities ensured that the river's water was potable before allowing fishing and recreational activities.
  • 4. Complying with health standards concerning drinking water and liquids.
    • Example: Tourists are advised to drink only potable water while visiting remote areas.

Etymology

From Latin 'potabilis', meaning 'drinkable', from 'potare', meaning 'to drink'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

potable water:

Water that is safe for drinking.

non-potable:

Water that is not safe for drinking.

potable solutions:

Liquid solutions that are safe to consume.

Related Words

hydration:

The process of causing something to absorb water.

aqueous:

Related to or resembling water.

liquid:

A substance that flows freely but is of constant volume.

Slang Meanings of potable

Meaning: Water that is cool and refreshing to drink.

Example Sentence: After the hike, we found some potable at the creek.

Meaning: Any drinkable liquid, often used in informal contexts.

Example Sentence: I'll take whatever's potable from the cooler.