potable
UK: ˈpəʊtəbl | US: ˈpoʊtəbl
adj. safe to drink; suitable for drinking
potable = pot<drink> + able<capable of>
- pot (from Latin potare, meaning "to drink")
- able (suffix from Latin -abilis, indicating capability)
Etymology Origin:
The word "potable" traces back to Latin potabilis, derived from potare (to drink). The suffix -able was added to form an adjective meaning "capable of being drunk." Over time, it entered Middle English via Old French, retaining its core meaning of "safe to drink." The logic is straightforward: pot (drink) + able (capable) = "drinkable."
The hiker carried a potable water filter to ensure safe drinking.
After the storm, authorities tested the river to confirm it was still potable.
This portable device can turn seawater into potable liquid.
Not all natural springs produce potable water without treatment.
The survival guide emphasized finding potable sources before food.