How Do You Spell DEGRADABLE?

Pronunciation: [dɪɡɹˈe͡ɪdəbə͡l] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the word "degradable" is often confused with "biodegradable". The word "degradable" refers to a substance that can be broken down into smaller pieces or compounds. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /dɪˈɡreɪdəbl/. The first syllable "di-" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a stressed "gr" sound, and ending with an unstressed "dəbl" syllable. It is important to use the correct spelling to ensure that the intended meaning is conveyed accurately.

DEGRADABLE Meaning and Definition

1. Degradable refers to the property or characteristic of a substance or material that can be broken down into simpler forms, typically through natural processes, ultimately resulting in its disappearance or transformation into non-harmful components. This term is often used in relation to various types of waste or pollutants.

   In the context of environmental science and sustainability, degradable materials are those that can decompose naturally over time, usually through microbial or enzymatic activity. These substances undergo physical, chemical, or biological changes, such as fragmentation or digestion, that eventually lead to their biodegradation. In this way, degradable materials can be safely reintegrated into natural cycles or ecosystems without causing significant harm or pollution.

   It is important to note that degradability is a relative term, and the time frame required for the complete breakdown of a degradable substance can vary widely depending on factors such as environmental conditions, the specific substance, and its chemical properties. Some materials may be considered degradable if they break down within months or years, while others may require several decades.

   Degradable materials are often contrasted with non-degradable materials, which do not easily decompose and can persist in the environment for extended periods, leading to pollution and ecological concerns. Overall, promoting the use of degradable materials and reducing reliance on non-degradable ones can be seen as crucial steps towards achieving sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

Top Common Misspellings for DEGRADABLE *

• degradeable 60%
• degadable 20%
• degardable 20%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for DEGRADABLE

• derawable
• degradabel
• degradablee
• Rewradablemess
• Depridable
• degradibley

Etymology of DEGRADABLE

The word "degradable" is derived from the combination of two roots: "de" and "gradable".

1. "De-" is a prefix of Latin origin, meaning "reverse" or "undoing". It is used to indicate negation, removal, or reversal of the word it is attached to.

2. "Gradable" is an adjective derived from the verb "grade" (originally from Latin "gradus"), which means to rank, arrange, or classify according to a scale or degree.

When these two roots are combined, "degradable" is formed. The word conveys the meaning of something that can be reversed or undone in terms of its quality, position, or rank over time. In common usage, "degradable" refers to materials that can be broken down into simpler forms by natural processes, such as degradation by microorganisms, thereby reducing environmental impact.