adjective
recyclable
ree-SY-kluh-buhl
Recyclable (adjective) means Able to be recycled. Example: “Glass bottles are recyclable, so put them in the correct bin.”
adjective
1
Able to be recycled.
"Glass bottles are recyclable, so put them in the correct bin."
"Most councils now collect recyclable packaging from doorsteps."
"Check the label to see whether the container is recyclable."
noun
1
An item that is suitable for recycling rather than disposal.
"She sorted the recyclables from the general rubbish."
"A soda can is a common recyclable found in most kitchens."
"The recycling centre only accepts certain types of recyclables."
How to use recyclable
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRecyclable means something can be put through the recycling process instead of being binned as waste.
When to use it
It is an everyday word, equally at home in casual speech and official recycling guidance.
Memory tip
The adjective and noun forms look identical, so check the sentence to see whether it is describing a quality or naming an object.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
recyclable materials
recyclable packaging
fully recyclable
sort the recyclables
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Glass bottles are _____, so put them in the correct bin.
Etymology
The word is formed by adding the suffix -able to recycle, giving the sense of something capable of being recycled.
Rhymes for recyclable
See all rhymes for recyclable →Frequently asked questions
What does recyclable mean?
Recyclable describes something that can be processed and used again rather than thrown away.
Is recyclable a noun as well as an adjective?
Yes, a recyclable can also refer to the object itself, such as a can or bottle that can be recycled.
What is an example of a recyclable item?
A soda can is a common example of a recyclable item.
What is the meaning of recyclable?
"recyclable" (adjective) means able to be recycled.
