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Definition of "residue" []

  • The remainder of something after removal of parts or a part. (noun)
  • Matter remaining after completion of an abstractive chemical or physical process, such as evaporation, combustion, distillation, or filtration; residuum. (noun)
  • Law The remainder of a testator's estate after all claims, debts, and bequests are satisfied. Also called residuum. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "residue" in a sentence
  • "If you let water stand and dry naturally, the floors will be dull, because there will be a slight residue from the water -- this is why the last polishing step is important."
  • "Nearby, children fly kites in a field blanketed with ashen dust - residue from the floods."
  • "The Las Vegas Sun says it cost $80,000 to clear a no-smoking zone, replacing the carpet and wallpaper, even cleaning smoke residue from the slot machines."