disposable
UK: dɪˈspəʊzəbl | US: dɪˈspoʊzəbl
adj. designed to be used once and then thrown away
adj. available for use; capable of being utilized
n. an item intended for single use before disposal
The word "disposable" originates from the Latin root ponere (to place), which evolved into pos- in compounds. The prefix dis- implies separation or removal, while -able denotes capability. Combined, the term literally means "capable of being placed away," reflecting its modern sense of being designed for discard after use. The concept emerged in the early 17th century, initially describing resources or funds available for use, later narrowing to single-use items in the 20th century with the rise of consumer culture.
Disposable masks became essential during the pandemic.
The company switched to disposable cutlery to reduce cleaning costs.
He treated friendships as disposable, never investing long-term.
Disposable income allows for more leisure activities.
Always recycle disposable bottles when possible.