impermeable
/impeɾmeˈable/
The English word waterproof is impermeable in Spanish.
impermeable is an adjective used to describe something made or covered with material that does not let water in. You can also use the phrase a prueba de lluvia to express 'rainproof' or a prueba de humedad to express 'moisture-proof'.
Meaning: made or covered with material that doesn't let water in (adj)
Which one should you use?
While impermeable is the standard term for waterproof, it can also be used to describe something that is impermeable to other substances, such as air or light, depending on the context.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The related verb impermeabilizar is a regular -ar verb. For example, the first-person singular present indicative form is impermeabilizo, which means 'I waterproof'.
How do you pronounce it?
/impeɾmeˈable/
Did you know?
- In Spain and Latin America, impermeable is commonly used as a noun to mean 'a raincoat'.
- The phrase a prueba de is the universal way to express 'proof' for various hazards, such as a prueba de balas for 'bulletproof'.
- The term resistente al agua is often preferred over impermeable when referring specifically to cosmetics like mascara.
Examples in context
- El abrigo es impermeable, te mantendrá seco en días de lluvia.The coat is waterproof, it will keep you dry on rainy days.
- No te preocupes, el teléfono es a prueba de agua, puedes llevarlo a la piscina sin problemas.Don't worry, the phone is waterproof, you can take it to the pool without any issues.
- Este reloj es resistente al agua. Lo puedes usar mientras te duchas o nadas.This watch is waterproof, you can wear it while showering or swimming.
- El frasco es hermético, no permitirá el ingreso de agua o aire.The jar is waterproof/tight, it won't allow the entry of water or air.
- una chaqueta impermeableA waterproof jacket
- Este material es impermeable.This material is waterproof.
- Necesito una chaqueta impermeable.I need a waterproof jacket.
- La tienda vende mochilas impermeables.The shop sells waterproof backpacks.
Example conversation
Sofía and Daniel are preparing for a hiking trip.
- Sofía¿Es impermeable tu mochila?Is your backpack waterproof?
- DanielSí, es totalmente impermeable.Yes, it is totally waterproof.
- SofíaQué bueno, va a llover mucho.That's good, it is going to rain a lot.
- DanielNo te preocupes, Sofía.Don't worry, Sofía.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “waterproof” translations and entries impermeable, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
