1. the physical property of a substance that repels or fails to mix with water; the tendency of a molecule or surface to avoid contact with water.
Usage: commonly used in chemistry, biology, and materials science; often contrasted with hydrophilicity

Examples

• The hydrophobicity of oil makes it separate from water in a mixture.
• Scientists measure the hydrophobicity of a surface by observing how water droplets bead up on it.
• Certain proteins have hydrophobic regions that affect their hydrophobicity in aqueous solutions.
• The hydrophobicity of the coating helps protect the fabric from water damage.
• Researchers increased the hydrophobicity of the material by adding a special chemical treatment.
• Lotus leaves exhibit extreme hydrophobicity, causing water to roll off them easily.