re-proof
C1Technical / Specialized
Definition
Meaning
To make something waterproof or resistant to water again.
To provide something with a new protective coating against water; to reprocess a fabric or material so it regains its waterproof qualities. More broadly, it can refer to checking something again for errors or faults (though 'reprove' meaning 'scold' is a different word).
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Most commonly used in relation to fabrics (e.g., jackets, tents). The hyphen helps distinguish it from the unrelated verb 'reprove' (to scold). Can also be used as an adjective/noun (re-proofed material).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage and concept are identical, but the context may differ slightly based on local brands of waterproofing products (e.g., 'Nikwax' in UK, 'Kiwi' or 'Scotchgard' in US).
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both.
Frequency
Low frequency in both, slightly more common in UK due to climate and outdoor culture.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] re-proofs [Object][Object] needs re-proofingVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"It's time to re-proof your luck" (playful extension, not standard).”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
In retail for outdoor equipment care products.
Academic
In materials science or textile engineering.
Everyday
Discussing maintenance of outdoor clothing or camping gear.
Technical
Specific instructions for fabric treatment processes.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- You should re-proof your walking jacket before the Scottish hiking season.
- The tent needs re-proofing after two years of use.
American English
- I'm going to re-proof my raincoat with a spray-on treatment.
- They re-proofed the awning to prepare for the Pacific Northwest rains.
adjective
British English
- The re-proofed garment performed well in the Lake District downpour.
American English
- Buy a can of re-proof spray for your gear.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My coat is not waterproof. I must re-proof it.
- Outdoor specialists recommend you re-proof your technical gear annually to maintain its performance.
- Having neglected to re-proof the canvas for several seasons, the explorer found his tent was no longer impervious to the relentless alpine sleet.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: RE + PROOF (as in 'waterproof') = to PROOF again.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROTECTION IS A SHIELD (re-applying the shield).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'reprove' (/rɪˈpruːv/ - делать выговор). The hyphen is crucial. Do not translate as 'доказывать заново'.
Common Mistakes
- Writing as one word 'reproof' (which means 'scold' or 'a reprimand').
- Confusing with 'reprove'.
- Using without object (needs an object e.g., 're-proof the jacket').
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 're-proof'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are different words. 'Re-proof' (with hyphen) means to make waterproof again. 'Reprove' (no hyphen) means to scold or criticize.
Primarily for fabrics and porous materials. It's less common but possible for other surfaces needing a renewed waterproof seal.
It's a low-frequency, specialized term used mainly by people involved in outdoor activities or textile care.
Re-proofed (e.g., 'I re-proofed my jacket').