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residue
/ˈrɛzɪdjuː/
remaining part
After filtering the mixture, there was a small residue of sand at the bottom of the container.
A small amount of sand remained after the liquid was poured out.
formal
A small amount of something that remains after a process has been completed or a substance has been removed.
The chemical reaction left a white residue on the glassware.
A white substance remained on the glass after the chemical process.
She wiped away the residue of toothpaste from her lips.
She removed the leftover toothpaste from her lips.
Often used in scientific, legal, or technical contexts to describe leftover matter after a process.
technical
A substance that settles after a liquid is filtered or decanted.
The residue from the distillation process was analyzed for impurities.
The leftover substance after distillation was checked for contaminants.
In chemistry, residue refers specifically to the solid left after evaporation or filtration.
literary
Something that remains as a trace or vestige of a former state or condition.
The ruins were the only residue of the once-great civilization.
The ruins were the only remaining evidence of the civilization.
Used metaphorically to describe remnants of the past.
Collocations
chemical residueleftover chemicals after a reactiontoxic residueharmful leftover substancesresidue analysisexamination of leftover matter
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with similar words
Remember that 'residue' refers to leftover matter after a process, while 'residency' refers to a position or period of living somewhere.
Gold Rule
Use 'residue' for physical remnants
Residue is typically used for tangible substances like chemicals, sand, or food particles, not abstract concepts.
Word Origin
From Latin *residuum* (something left behind), from *residēre* (to remain), from *re-* (back) + *sedēre* (to sit).
Usage Notes
Commonly used in chemistry, law (e.g., 'residue of estate'), and everyday contexts. Avoid confusing with 'residency' (a place where someone lives) or 'residence' (a dwelling).
Word Breakdown
re-
back, again
prefix-sidue
to sit
rootEnglish Dictionary