Adjective
/imperˈme.able/
The word "impermeable" is used to describe materials that do not allow liquids or gases to pass through them. In various contexts, such as medicine, it can refer to barriers in the body, while in a polytechnical or military context it might describe materials used in protective gear or fabric meant to repel water.
The frequency of use for "impermeable" tends to be moderate. It is used in both oral and written forms, though it may appear more often in written contexts, such as scientific or technical descriptions.
La chaqueta es impermeable, perfecta para la lluvia.
The jacket is waterproof, perfect for the rain.
Este material es impermeable, ideal para la construcción.
This material is impervious, ideal for construction.
Los cereales se almacenan en un envase impermeable.
The cereals are stored in a waterproof container.
While "impermeable" itself is not widely featured in idiomatic expressions, it is often used in contexts relating to determination or resilience:
Mantenerse impermeable a las críticas es esencial en este trabajo.
Staying impervious to criticism is essential in this job.
Ella es impermeable a los rumores del colegio.
She is impervious to the rumors at school.
Es importante ser impermeable ante las adversidades.
It is important to be unaffected by adversities.
The word "impermeable" originates from the Latin term "impermeabilis," which breaks down into "in-" (not) and "permeabilis" (permeable). The roots suggest the inability to pass through.
This comprehensive overview of "impermeable" highlights its role across various fields and provides insight into its use and connotations within the Spanish language.