Residue Meaning and Definition
Residue
Pronunciation
/rɪˈzuːɪt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A remaining or leftover amount of something, often in a different form or condition from the original material.
Examples
- The company struggled to dispose of the hazardous residue left over from the manufacturing process.
- The farmer tried to remove the residue from the fields to prepare for the next harvest.
Synonyms
- Remnant
- Leftover
- Waste
- Ruins
Antonyms
- Purity
- Cleanness
- Wholesomeness
Etymology
The word “Residue” comes from the Latin “residuum,” meaning “what remains.” It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe leftover or remaining amounts of something.
Usage Notes
When using the word “Residue,” consider the context in which you are using it. In scientific contexts, residue may refer to a remaining amount of a substance, while in everyday language, it may refer to leftover or unused materials.
Cultural References
The word “Residue” has been referenced in several films and TV shows, including the documentary “The Residue of Science” and the TV series “The Leftovers.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“To leave residue” means to have a lasting impact or effect on something or someone.
Related Words or Phrases
Ruins, remains, leftovers, waste, contaminants
Collocations
“To remove residue”, “to dispose of residue”, “to leave a residue”
Frequency of Use
The word “Residue” is commonly used in scientific and technical contexts, but is less frequently used in everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
Rezidue, Residu, Residus