leach
Leach (verb) means to remove a soluble substance from something by letting liquid filter through it, or (of a substance) to be removed this way. Example: “Heavy rain can leach nutrients out of the soil.”
How to use leach
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo seep out of something, or draw a substance out by percolation.
Don't confuse with "leech" (the bloodsucking worm, or a person who exploits others) — they sound alike but are unrelated.
Word forms
leached past tense, Leaches plural, leaches singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Heavy rain can _____ nutrients out of the soil.
Etymology
From Old English leċċan, related to a Proto-Germanic root meaning "to leak."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for leach
See all rhymes for leach →Frequently asked questions
What does “leach” mean?
The word “leach” means to remove a soluble substance from something by letting liquid filter through it, or (of a substance) to be removed this way. In plain terms, to seep out of something, or draw a substance out by percolation.
How do you pronounce “leach”?
“Leach” is pronounced leech (/liːt͡ʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “leach” in a sentence?
Here is “leach” used in a sentence: “Heavy rain can leach nutrients out of the soil.”
What part of speech is “leach”?
“Leach” is a verb.
Where does the word “leach” come from?
The word “leach” comes from Old English. From Old English leċċan, related to a Proto-Germanic root meaning "to leak.".
Is “leach” a common word?
“Leach” is an uncommon word in modern English.