Weatherproof
WETH-er-proof
/ˈweðərpruːf/
Resistant to the effects of bad weather, especially wind, rain, and snow.
A broader term than 'waterproof'; it implies resistance to all elements (wind, rain, snow, and cold temperatures) combined.
The story behind the word. A compound of the Old English 'weder' (meaning air, wind, or storm) and 'proof' (from Latin 'probare', meaning to test and confirm). It emerged in the 19th century alongside industrial advancements in treating fabrics to resist rain and wind.
Word relationships
- all-weather: All-weather implies versatility across seasons, while weatherproof emphasizes active resistance to harsh, damaging elements.
- waterproof: Waterproof means completely impervious to water, whereas weatherproof also includes resistance to wind and cold.
- permeable: Permeable materials allow wind, water, and air to pass through easily.
Commonly confused with
- Waterproof: Waterproof means water cannot penetrate the fabric at all, while weatherproof means the garment protects against wind, snow, and light rain but might not be fully submersible.
Word family
- weatherproofing (Noun): The process of making something resistant to weather.
- weatherproofed (Verb): Past tense of weatherproof.
Collocations
- weatherproof jacket
- weatherproof coating
- weatherproof material
- weatherproof shell
Example sentences
- "The outer shell of the jacket is made of a highly durable, weatherproof membrane." Describing high-tech outerwear fabric.
- "To survive the unpredictable mountain weather, you must ensure your outer shell is thoroughly weatherproof." A real citation from a technical gear review.
Memory hook
Your jacket acts as a 'PROOF' (shield) that can stand up to any 'WEATHER'. Proof against the weather's worst.
When not to use
Do not use when describing items that are completely submersible in water (use 'waterproof' instead).
Fun facts
- The first weatherproof fabrics were made by coating heavy cotton canvas with linseed oil, which kept out the rain but made the garments stiff, heavy, and highly flammable.
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