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Porous - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Porous describes a material or substance that has small holes or spaces, allowing liquids or gases to pass through. Examples include sponges, soil, and certain rocks. It is often used in science and construction contexts.

porous

/ˈpɔrəs/ /ˈpɔːrəs/

Definition:

Allowing liquids or gases to pass through small holes or spaces.

Synonyms:

permeable, absorbent, spongy, leaky

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

impermeable, solid, nonporous

Common Collocations:

porous material, porous surface, porous rock, porous membrane

Derivatives:

porosity, porously

Usage Tips:

Use "porous" to describe materials that let substances pass through them, like sponges or certain rocks.

Common Phrases:

porous border, porous defense, porous as a sieve

Etymology:

From Latin "porus" (pore) + "-ous," meaning "full of."

Examples:

  • 1. The sponge is porous and absorbs water quickly.
  • 2. Porous rocks allow rainwater to seep into the ground.
  • 3. This fabric is too porous to keep you dry in the rain.
  • 4. The soil here is porous and drains well.
  • 5. A porous border makes it easier for people to cross illegally.

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