rechargeable
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪtʃˈɑːdʒəbəl/
US
- /riˈtʃɑrdʒəbəl/
Description
- Can be charged again
- filled with power again
- made for repeated use
Imagine your favorite toy robot suddenly stops moving in the middle of an adventure. If it's rechargeable, you do not need to throw the battery away or replace the whole device. You can simply plug it in or place it on a charger and give it power again. The word "rechargeable" usually describes batteries and devices such as phones, flashlights, headphones, and electric toothbrushes.
Today, we mostly use the word when talking about electricity. A rechargeable battery is not disposable; it is made to be used, run down, and then charged again many times. So when you see this word on an electronic product, it usually suggests something practical, long-lasting, and less wasteful than a single-use battery.
The term "rechargeable" describes a battery, tool, or electronic device that can be charged again after its stored power has been used. It is most often used for things like smartphones, laptops, cameras, flashlights, electric toothbrushes, power tools, and electric vehicles. If something is rechargeable, it is designed for repeated use rather than being thrown away after one cycle.
The idea comes from "recharge," which means to put power back into something. In modern English, this usually means sending electrical energy back into a battery so it can work again. Rechargeable batteries are different from disposable batteries because they can be charged many times before they wear out. This often makes them more convenient, cheaper over time, and less harmful to the environment. You might say, "These headphones are rechargeable, so I just charge them at night."
English also uses the related verb "recharge" in a figurative way. People may say they need to recharge after a stressful week, meaning they need rest and fresh energy. But the adjective "rechargeable" is mainly used for objects and devices, not for people.
So in everyday use, "rechargeable" is a practical word. It tells you that something can regain power and be used again, which makes it especially common in modern technology and household electronics.
Examples
- 1
Camera batteries
This camera uses two rechargeable batteries.
- 2
Emergency light
I keep a rechargeable flashlight by the bed for emergencies.
- 3
Product question
Is this toothbrush rechargeable, or does it use regular batteries?
- 4
Headphone case
The headphones come with a rechargeable case that gives them extra power between uses.
- 5
Long-term cost
Rechargeable tools cost more at first, but they usually save money over time.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- rechargeableadjective