hydrophobic
[/ˌhaɪ.drə.ˈfoʊ.bɪk/]
adjective
hidrofóbico
1. repelling or unable to mix with water; having a tendency to avoid contact with water
Hydrophobic materials are commonly used in waterproof coatings.
Materiais hidrofóbicos são comumente usados em revestimentos à prova de água.
2. in chemistry, describing a substance or part of a molecule that does not dissolve in water
The hydrophobic core of the lipid bilayer prevents water molecules from passing through.
O núcleo hidrofóbico da bicamada lipídica impede que moléculas de água passem através dela.
3. informal: relating to an irrational fear of water
His hydrophobic tendencies made swimming lessons very challenging.
Suas tendências hidrofóbicas tornaram as aulas de natação muito desafiadoras.
The term 'hidrofóbico' is primarily used in scientific, medical, and technical contexts in both Brazil and Portugal. In everyday language, Portuguese speakers would more likely use descriptive phrases like 'repelente à água' (water-repellent) rather than the technical term. The word has gained increased usage in consumer product marketing in recent years, particularly for waterproof textiles and protective coatings.
Related Idioms & Phrases
like water off a duck's back (referencing hydrophobic feathers)
as oil and water (describing hydrophobic-hydrophilic separation)
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