deodorant

noun

de·​odor·​ant dē-ˈō-də-rənt 

: a preparation that destroys or masks unpleasant odors

specifically : a substance applied to the armpits to prevent or mask odors

deodorant adjective

Examples of deodorant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

So did barbecue lighter fluid, dry cleaners, paints, deodorants, breweries, and the ethanol in the aromas from commercial bakeries. —Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times, 26 Mar. 2026

Sensitive Skin Some deodorants and antiperspirants may irritate sensitive skin. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 23 Mar. 2026

First, what’s the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant? —Sarah Kinonen, Allure, 27 Feb. 2026

Deodorant was another hot category, with sustainable deodorant brand Wild — acquired by Unilever last April — growing 217 percent, while Carpe, which is known for its full-body antiperspirants including some clinical-grade offering, also grew. —Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 3 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for deodorant

• odorant

Kids Definition

deodorant

noun

de·​odor·​ant dē-ˈōd-ə-rənt 

: a preparation that destroys or masks unpleasant odors

deodorant adjective

Medical Definition

deodorant

1 of 2 adjective

de·​odor·​ant dē-ˈōd-ə-rənt 

: destroying or masking offensive odors

deodorant

2 of 2 noun

: any of various preparations or solutions (as a soap or disinfectant) that destroy or mask unpleasant odors

especially : a cosmetic that neutralizes perspiration odors