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biodegradable

BY-oh-dih-GRAY-duh-bul /ˌbaɪoʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/

adjectiveB2IELTSTOEFL

environmentalscientific

(Of a substance or object) capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.

Implies that the breakdown happens naturally and safely without leaving toxic residue.

The story behind the word. A 20th-century word. 'Bio' (life) + 'degrade' (to lower in rank or step down). It describes the process of life forms stepping a complex material down into simpler elements.

Word relationships

decomposable: Decomposable is a general term; biodegradable specifically highlights the role of biological organisms.

non-biodegradable: Materials like most plastics that do not break down naturally.
persistent: In environmental science, chemicals that remain in the environment for a long time without breaking down.

Commonly confused with

compostable: Compostable items break down in a specific timeframe in a compost pile; biodegradable is a broader, slower process.

Word family

biodegradability (noun): The degree to which something is biodegradable.
biodegrade (verb): To decompose through biological means.

Collocations

biodegradable plastic
biodegradable waste
fully biodegradable

Example sentences

"Switching to biodegradable packaging can significantly reduce the amount of plastic in our oceans." Product packaging.
"The act requires that all detergents sold must be at least 90% biodegradable." Environmental policy.

Memory hook

BIO (life) + DEGRADE (break down). Life breaks it down. Biodegradable: Life-led breakdown.

When not to use

Don't confuse it with 'compostable.' All compostable items are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable items are compostable (some take too long or need specific conditions).

Fun facts

Even 'biodegradable' plastics often require the high heat of industrial composting facilities to actually break down; they won't just disappear in your backyard.