What does potable mean?
Potable is an adjective meaning fit for drinking, especially water that has been tested or treated so that it is safe to consume. It is also used as a noun, usually in the plural potables, for beverages, including alcoholic drinks. The word has a formal, practical tone and is often associated with public health, safety regulations, travel, and the provision of drinking water. Although potable can describe anything safe to drink, its use with water is especially common, including phrases such as 'potable water supply.' In ordinary conversation, people may simply say 'drinkable,' but potable remains useful in precise or professional contexts where the safety of a liquid is important.
Suitable or safe for drinking.
"Local authorities warned that the floodwater was not potable."
Formal and often used in technical, public-health, or regulatory contexts.
A drink or beverage, especially an alcoholic drink; usually used in the plural.
"Guests were offered a range of potables at the reception."
Usually plural; 'potables' commonly refers to alcoholic drinks served at a social or formal event.
Usually plural, referring to drinks or beverages, especially alcoholic drinks. The singular 'potable' is much less common.
"The reception included several wines, beers, and other potables."
The word potable comes from the Latin verb potare, meaning 'to drink,' and has long described water that people can safely consume.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does potable come from?
Potable comes through English from Latin potabilis, meaning 'drinkable' or 'able to be drunk.' The underlying root is the Latin verb potare, 'to drink,' which also gives rise to related English words such as potion and potation. The adjective entered English in the early 16th century in contexts describing drinkable liquids and, later, water suitable for drinking.
Related word forms
How potable is actually used
Potable is formal and often technical or regulatory in its adjective sense, as in 'potable water.' The noun is commonly used in the plural 'potables' for drinks served at an event; it can sound somewhat formal or social.
Easily confused with potable
Potable means drinkable, whereas possible means capable of happening or being done.