1 a [noncount] : loss of something valuable that occurs because too much of it is being used or because it is being used in a way that is not necessary or effective
▪ The current system causes a lot of waste. ▪ We need to find ways to reduce/avoid unnecessary waste.
b [singular] : an action or use that results in the unnecessary loss of something valuable
▪ These old computers are still useful. It seems like such a waste to throw them away. ▪ Any further investment would be a waste of valuable resources. ▪ The show was a waste of money. [=a bad use of money] ▪ The lecture was a waste of time. [=a bad use of time]
c [singular] : a situation in which something valuable is not being used or is being used in a way that is not appropriate or effective
▪ That role was a waste of her talents. [=a poor use of her talents] 2 : material that is left over or that is unwanted after something has been made, done, used, etc. [noncount] ▪ hazardous waste ▪ disposal of industrial waste ▪ waste removal ▪ The city oversees waste disposal contracts. ▪ household waste [=trash, rubbish] [count] ▪ hazardous wastes ▪ household wastes — see also toxic waste 3 [noncount] : the solid and liquid substances that are produced by the body : feces and urine
▪ liquid/solid waste ▪ a waste treatment plant 4 wastes [plural] literary : a large and empty area of land : wasteland
▪ the frozen wastes of the tundra