cationic detergent

noun

Definition of cationic detergent

: any of a class of synthetic detergents usually consisting essentially of a quaternary ammonium salt (as cetyl-trimethyl-ammonium chloride [C₁₆H₃₃N(CH₃)₃]⁺Cl⁻) with 12 to 24 carbon atoms in the organic groups attached to the nitrogen atom in the cation and valuable as a wetting and emulsifying agent in acid or neutral solutions or as a germicide or fungicide

— called also invert soap

Comments on cationic detergent

What made you want to look up cationic detergent? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

WORD OF THE DAY

Yooper

one from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

Test Your Vocabulary

Musical Words Quiz

Which word describes a musical performance marked by the absence of instrumental accompaniment?

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ

Dictionary Devil

Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ