chlorhexidine
noun
chlor·hex·i·dine
klȯr-ˈhek-sə-ˌdīn 
-ˌdēn
: an antibacterial compound C22H30Cl2N10 used as a local antiseptic (as in mouthwash) and disinfectant especially in the form of its hydrochloride, gluconate, or acetate
Examples of chlorhexidine in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
When the products were tested on human gum cells, chlorhexidine caused significant cell death, and Listerine caused moderate damage.
—
New Atlas, 1 July 2025
In contrast, the chlorhexidine and Listerine mouthwashes killed both harmful and helpful microbes indiscriminately.
—New Atlas, 1 July 2025
Developed in partnership with British company Indestructible Paint, the coating consists of that firm's conventional clear gloss resin along with a 2% concentration of a broad-spectrum biocidal agent known as chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX).
—Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 23 Apr. 2025
Misusing chlorhexidine can result in significant adverse reactions.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 21 Nov. 2024
For example, chlorhexidine is used for treating conditions such as gum disease, mouth ulcers, and oral thrush.
—Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 5 Jan. 2025
If she has gotten bitten, Ms. Darby swabs the cut with chlorhexidine, bribing Katie with treats to stay still.
—Andy Newman, New York Times, 23 Dec. 2024
Apply a minimal amount of the chlorhexidine product around the wound.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 21 Nov. 2024
If your provider recommends using a chlorhexidine cleanser, several OTC brands exist.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 21 Nov. 2024
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New Atlas, 1 July 2025
In contrast, the chlorhexidine and Listerine mouthwashes killed both harmful and helpful microbes indiscriminately.
—New Atlas, 1 July 2025
Developed in partnership with British company Indestructible Paint, the coating consists of that firm's conventional clear gloss resin along with a 2% concentration of a broad-spectrum biocidal agent known as chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX).
—Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 23 Apr. 2025
Misusing chlorhexidine can result in significant adverse reactions.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 21 Nov. 2024
For example, chlorhexidine is used for treating conditions such as gum disease, mouth ulcers, and oral thrush.
—Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 5 Jan. 2025
If she has gotten bitten, Ms. Darby swabs the cut with chlorhexidine, bribing Katie with treats to stay still.
—Andy Newman, New York Times, 23 Dec. 2024
Apply a minimal amount of the chlorhexidine product around the wound.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 21 Nov. 2024
If your provider recommends using a chlorhexidine cleanser, several OTC brands exist.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 21 Nov. 2024
Cite this Entry
“Chlorhexidine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chlorhexidine. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
chlorhexidine
noun
chlor·hex·i·dine
klōr-ˈhek-sə-ˌdīn, klȯr-, -ˌdēn
: an antibacterial compound C22H30Cl2N10 that is a biguanide derivative used as a local antiseptic (as in mouthwash) and disinfectant especially in the form of its hydrochloride, gluconate, or acetate
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