Waterable

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Having the ability to be replenished with water for nourishment ; Suitable for receiving moisture necessary for growth ; Capable of being irrigated to support vegetation and sustain life through water accessibility
2. Able to be supplied with water to maintain moisture or aid growth
3. Fit for receiving water to keep something hydrated or growing

Etymology: "Waterable" is a plain formation: the noun "water" with the suffix "-able," which comes from Latin "-abilis" and turns a verb or noun into an adjective meaning "able to be" or "suitable for" the action. Put together, it describes something that can be watered, or that is in a state where water can be applied to it, such as dry soil that soaks up moisture or a lawn that accepts irrigation. The suffix "-able" is one of the most productive in English, so the word follows a familiar pattern. Its sense is literal and practical rather than figurative, and it is most often heard in gardening and farming contexts.