waterproof
UK: ˈwɔːtəpruːf | US: ˈwɔːtərpruːf
adj. resistant to water; unable to be penetrated by water
vt. to make something resistant to water
The word "waterproof" is a compound formed from "water" (Old English wæter, from Proto-Germanic watōr) and "proof" (Middle English prove, from Old French prover, meaning "to test or resist"). The combination emerged in the early 19th century, originally describing fabrics treated to repel water. The logic is straightforward: "proof" implies resistance, so "waterproof" literally means "resistant to water." This construction follows a common English pattern for creating descriptive adjectives (e.g., "fireproof," "childproof").
This jacket is waterproof, so you won’t get wet in the rain.
They waterproofed the tent before the camping trip.
The phone case claims to be fully waterproof up to 10 meters.
Ancient civilizations used wax to waterproof their boats.
Always check if your shoes are waterproof before hiking in wet conditions.