Dictionary
1leach
2leach
verb \ˈlēch\
: to remove (a chemical, a metal, etc.) from a substance by the action of a liquid passing through the substance : to release (a chemical, a metal, etc.) when a liquid passes through
of a chemical, a metal, etc. : to be removed from a substance by a liquid passing through the substance
Full Definition of LEACH
transitive verb
1
: to dissolve out by the action of a percolating liquid <leach out alkali from ashes>
2
: to subject to the action of percolating liquid (as water) in order to separate the soluble components
3
a : to remove (nutritive or harmful elements) from soil by percolation b : to draw out or remove as if by percolation <all meaning has been leached from my life>
intransitive verb
: to pass out or through by percolation
— leach·abil·i·ty \ˌlē-chə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun
— leach·able \ˈlē-chə-bəl\ adjective
— leach·er noun
See leach defined for English-language learners
See leach defined for kids
Origin of LEACH
leach vessel through which water is passed to extract lye
First Known Use: 1796
LEACHABILITY Defined for Kids
leach
verb
leachedleach·ing
Definition of LEACH for Kids
: to remove or remove from by the action of a liquid passing through a substance <Water leaches minerals from soil.> <The soil was leached by the constant rain.>
Medical Dictionary
leach
transitive verb \ˈlēch\
Medical Definition of LEACH
1
: to subject to the action of percolating liquid (as water) in order to separate the soluble components
2
: to dissolve out by the action of a percolating liquid
intransitive verb
: to pass out or through by percolation
—leach·abil·i·ty \ˌlē-chə-ˈbil-ət-ē\ noun, plural leach·abil·i·ties
—leach·able \ˈlē-chə-bəl\ adjective
Learn More About LEACH
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up leach? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).