Adjective
/wɔːtər wɛt/
The term "water-wet" refers to a condition or characteristic of a surface that is easily wet by water. This can relate to foams, coatings, or porous materials that do not repel water but instead readily absorb or allow water to spread across their surfaces. The frequency of its use is specific to scientific, engineering, or industrial contexts rather than informal conversation. It tends to appear more in written form, particularly in texts related to chemistry, fluid dynamics, and surface science.
The scientist explained that the water-wet surface allows for better oil recovery during the extraction process.
С cientista объяснил, что гидрофильная поверхность позволяет улучшить извлечение нефти в процессе добычи.
The experiments showed that changing the surface to a water-wet state drastically improved the adhesion of the paint.
Эксперименты показали, что изменение поверхности в гидрофильное состояние значительно улучшило адгезию краски.
Researchers are exploring materials that maintain their water-wet characteristics in extreme conditions.
Исследователи изучают материалы, которые сохраняют свои гидрофильные характеристики в экстремальных условиях.
While "water-wet" itself does not form part of established idiomatic expressions, it does connect to broader themes within language around moisture and surface properties. Here are some idiomatic uses of related concepts:
"Like water off a duck's back" - This means something has no effect on a person, often used in discussions about criticism or insults.
Это для него было, как вода для утки - никаких последствий для него.
"Throwing good money after bad" - This idiom refers to the act of investing more resources into a failing endeavor, similar to how water may seep further into already saturated soil.
Вкладывать хорошие деньги в плохое дело - это как пытаться вытащить воду из уже пропитанной почвы.
"A drop in the bucket" - This phrase signifies a small contribution or effort compared to a larger issue, much like a small water droplet in an ocean.
Это были капли в море в сравнении с масштабом проблемы.
"Water under the bridge" - This idiom refers to past events that are no longer significant or worth worrying about.
Это все уже в прошлом, как вода под мостом.
The term "water-wet" derives from the combination of "water," which comes from Old English "wæter," and "wet," which originates from Old English "wæt," meaning moist or drenched. This reflects basic elements of the English language regarding the state of matter as influenced by water.
Synonyms: Hydrophilic, moisture-retentive, absorbent.
Antonyms: Water-repellent, hydrophobic, non-absorbent.