residue

noun

res·​i·​due ˈre-zə-ˌdü How to pronounce residue (audio)
-ˌdyü
: something that remains after a part is taken, separated, or designated or after the completion of a process : remnant, remainder: such as
a
: the part of a testator's estate remaining after the satisfaction of all debts, charges, allowances, and previous devises and bequests
b
: the remainder after subtracting a multiple of a modulus from an integer or a power of the integer that can appear as the second of the two terms in an appropriate congruence
2 and 7 are residues of 12 modulo 5
c
: a constituent structural unit (such as a group or monomer) of a usually complex molecule
amino acid residues from hydrolysis of protein

Examples of residue in a Sentence

The grill was covered in a greasy residue from the hamburgers. The divorce left a residue of pain in the family. There was some kind of sticky residue on the floor. She left the residue of her estate to her daughter.
Recent Examples on the Web Then run clear water through the showerhead to get rid of any vinegar residue. Stacey Colino, Washington Post, 6 Mar. 2024 Singh, the defense lawyer, also reserved blame for the county’s child welfare agency for not better informing Castro that drug residue on a tabletop, couch or his hands could harm the baby. Julia Prodis Sulek, The Mercury News, 29 Feb. 2024 It’s formulated with nutrient-rich seaweed and a botanical blend — think: notes of grapefruit, lime, and mango — to create a long-lasting moisture barrier that sinks right into the skin without any greasy residue. Jennifer Chan, Peoplemag, 29 Feb. 2024 The fast-absorbing product (read: no greasy residue!) contains soothing calendula, as well as a botanical blend of oils including grapefruit, sweet almond, argan, and olive. Brigitt Earley, Allure, 28 Feb. 2024 Insecticides, including neonicotinoids, leave behind harmful residues that are toxic to crucial pollinators, such as honeybees, and sticky bands can inadvertently trap birds, small animals and other insects in their adhesive grip. Catherine Duncan, Smithsonian Magazine, 8 Mar. 2024 Attention residue, compounded by the constant influx of notifications and emails, undermines leadership effectiveness. Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024 To fix the issue, car owners can visit their local dealers to get their cars inspected free of charge for the ground cable connection and remove any residue if necessary. USA TODAY, 23 Feb. 2024 Perfect for renters seeking an accent wall, it can be easily removed without any damage or residue. Hyphensocial Contributors, Rolling Stone, 21 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'residue.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin residuum, from neuter of residuus left over, from residēre to remain

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of residue was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near residue

Cite this Entry

“Residue.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/residue. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

residue

noun
res·​i·​due ˈrez-ə-ˌd(y)ü How to pronounce residue (audio)
: whatever remains after a part is taken, set apart, or lost or after the completion of a process

Medical Definition

residue

noun
res·​i·​due ˈrez-ə-ˌd(y)ü How to pronounce residue (audio)
: something that remains after a part is taken, separated, or designated
specifically : a constituent structural unit (as a group or monomer) of a usually complex molecule
amino acid residues in a protein

Legal Definition

residue

noun
res·​i·​due ˈre-zə-ˌdü, -ˌdyü How to pronounce residue (audio)
: something that remains after a part is taken, separated, or designated
specifically : the part of a testator's estate remaining after the satisfaction of all debts, charges, taxes, and legacies other than residuary legacies

More from Merriam-Webster on residue

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