1.
water resistance; waterproof; water-resistant
The property of resisting water penetration or damage from water. Used as a noun or as a modifier (耐水の, 耐水性) to describe materials, products, and coatings that withstand water.
耐水性のある素材。
A water-resistant material.
この時計は耐水仕様だ。
This watch has a waterproof specification.
耐水ペーパーで仕上げを磨くと、表面がなめらかになる。
Polishing the finish with waterproof sandpaper makes the surface smooth.
Composed of 耐 (resistant, enduring) + 水 (water). Part of the productive 耐〜 pattern for describing resistance to various conditions.
USAGE:
耐水 is commonly used as a compound modifier: 耐水性 (water resistance as a property), 耐水加工 (waterproof treatment), 耐水ペーパー (waterproof sandpaper). It is distinct from 防水 (waterproof) in that 耐水 emphasizes resistance or durability against water, while 防水 emphasizes preventing water from entering.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 耐水性: water resistance (as a property)
- 耐水加工: waterproofing treatment
- 耐水ペーパー: waterproof sandpaper (wet-dry sandpaper)
- 耐水圧: water pressure resistance rating
- 耐水塗料: water-resistant paint
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 防水: waterproof — focuses on blocking water from entering; often used for coatings, cases, and gear
- 撥水: water-repellent — causes water to bead up and roll off the surface
- 耐熱: heat-resistant — same 耐〜 pattern applied to heat
- 耐久: durable — resistance to wear and degradation over time