detergent

[dih-tur-juhnt]

noun

1. any of a group of synthetic, organic, liquid or water-soluble cleaning agents that, unlike soap, are not prepared from fats and oils, are not inactivated by hard water, and have wetting-agent and emulsifying-agent properties.

2. a similar substance that is oil-soluble and capable of holding insoluble foreign matter in suspension, used in lubricating oils, dry-cleaning preparations, etc.

3. any cleansing agent, including soap.

adjective

1. cleansing; purging.

detergent

/ dɪˈtɜːdʒənt /

noun

1. a cleansing agent, esp a surface-active chemical such as an alkyl sulphonate, widely used in industry, laundering, shampoos, etc

adjective

1. having cleansing power

detergent

1. A cleaning agent that increases the ability of water to penetrate fabric and break down greases and dirt. Detergents act like soap but, unlike soaps, they are derived from organic acids rather than fatty acids. Their molecules surround particles of grease and dirt, allowing them to be carried away.

2. Compare soap

Other Word Forms

• nondetergent adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of detergent¹

First recorded in 1610–20; from French or directly from Latin dētergent- (stem of dētergēns, present participle of dētergēre ) “to wipe off”); deterge, -ent

Word History and Origins

Origin of detergent¹

C17: from Latin dētergēns wiping off; see _deterge

Example Sentences

The colorless gas is also used to make chemicals found in products such as antifreeze, detergents, plastics and adhesives.

From Los Angeles Times

It is used in common substances like plastic, resin, nylon and some forms of dyes, pesticides or detergents.

From BBC

A pungent smell of detergent and rotten food hits me as we walk through this enormous high-security prison.

From BBC

For years, they’ve been setting up tables on neighborhood sidewalks each day and stacking them with clothing, electronics, medication, toiletries, laundry detergent and other goods.

From Los Angeles Times

Recommendations included using mild soap and detergent to remove soot and smoke from the walls, throwing out burned items, and laundering all fabric items that children interact with.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cleaner 
• solvent