soluble
UK: ˈsɒl.jə.bəl | US: ˈsɑːl.jə.bəl
adj. capable of being dissolved in a liquid
adj. capable of being solved or explained
soluble = sol<loosen, dissolve> + uble<able to>
- sol (from Latin solvere, meaning "to loosen or dissolve")
- uble (variant of -able, from Latin -abilis, meaning "capable of")
Etymology Origin:
The word soluble traces back to Latin solubilis, derived from solvere ("to loosen or dissolve"). The root sol- reflects the idea of breaking apart (as in dissolution), while -uble (a form of -able) indicates capability. Over time, the term evolved to describe both physical solubility (e.g., sugar in water) and abstract solvability (e.g., problems). The dual meaning highlights the logical connection between "loosening" a solid into a liquid and "unraveling" a solution to a problem.
Salt is highly soluble in water.
The scientist tested whether the compound was soluble in alcohol.
This puzzle is not easily soluble without further clues.
The medication comes in a soluble tablet form.
Their disagreement proved soluble after a calm discussion.