1. Denoting the property of attracting or associating with water molecules, possessed by polar radicals or ions, as opposed to hydrophobic (2). 2. Tending to dissolve in water. 3. Polar. SYN: hydrophilous.
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hy·dro·phil·ic -'fil-ik adj of, relating to, or having a strong affinity for water <\hydrophilic colloids swell in water and are relatively stable> <soft contact lenses are made of \hydrophilic plastic, which absorbs water> compare LIPOPHILIC, LYOPHILIC, OLEOPHILIC
hydrophilic n HYDROPHILE
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hy·dro·phil·ic (hi″dro-filґik) readily absorbing moisture; hygroscopic; having strongly polar groups that readily interact with water.Medical dictionary. 2011.