What does showerproof mean?
Showerproof is an adjective describing clothing, fabric, bags, or other equipment that resists water from a shower or ordinary rain. It is commonly used when a product is intended to keep out light moisture but may not be completely waterproof under prolonged exposure or immersion. The term is especially frequent in British English and in outdoor-gear descriptions. A showerproof jacket or coat can be useful for walking, camping, and travel because it offers protection from sudden rain without implying the same degree of waterproofing as fully sealed equipment. In general use, showerproof emphasizes practical resistance to getting wet, while waterproof makes the stronger claim that water cannot pass through at all.
adjectiveResistant to water from a shower; designed not to become wet or allow water to penetrate.
- Resistant to water from a shower or similar source.
- Of clothing, fabric, or equipment: designed to prevent water from passing through or making the wearer substantially wet.
"The lightweight coat is showerproof and works well in rainy weather."
"He wore a showerproof coat while walking the dog in the rain."
"The sleeping bag has a showerproof shell for damp conditions."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does showerproof come from?
The word is a modern compound of “shower” and the suffix “-proof,” a familiar element in words such as waterproof and weatherproof meaning resistant to or protected against something. “Shower” comes from Old English scur, referring to a brief fall or burst of rain, while “proof” in this combining form ultimately comes from the idea of protecting or keeping something out. The compound developed as a practical description for materials and clothing intended to withstand wet conditions.
How showerproof is actually used
Chiefly used in British English and in product descriptions. It generally indicates resistance to shower water rather than complete impermeability.
Easily confused with showerproof
Showerproof describes resistance to water from a shower or light rain, whereas waterproof implies being completely impervious to water.