chlorine

noun

chlo·​rine ˈklȯr-ˌēn 

-ən

: a halogen element that is isolated as a heavy greenish-yellow diatomic gas of pungent odor and is used especially as a bleach, oxidizing agent, and disinfectant in water purification see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of chlorine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

How to avoid cyclosporiasis Cyclospora is typically resistant to most of the chemicals people use to clean, like chlorine and iodine, Sanders said. — Eva Flowe july 8, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2026

Additionally, be aware that using harsh chemicals, including ammonia, chlorine bleach, or hydrogen peroxide, in a spa day routine is generally not advised by experts. — Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 July 2026

For categories like swim, function is important, and Lycra EcoMade is said to perform identically to conventional Lycra while also resisting wear from sunscreen, UV exposure and chlorine. — Sarah Jones, Footwear News, 6 July 2026

The chlorine is rinsed off before packaging and is considered safe by food safety standards. — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 6 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1810, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing chlorine

• chlorine dioxide
• chlorine monoxide

Rhymes for chlorine

• taurine
• organochlorine

Kids Definition

chlorine

noun

chlo·​rine ˈklō(ə)r-ˌēn 

ˈklȯ(ə)r-, 

-ən

: a nonmetallic element that is found alone as a heavy greenish yellow irritating gas having two atoms per molecule and a strong odor and that is used especially as a bleach, oxidizing agent, and disinfectant in water purification see element

Medical Definition

chlorine

noun

chlo·​rine ˈklō(ə)r-ˌēn, ˈklȯ(ə)r-, -ən 

: a halogen element that is isolated as a heavy greenish yellow gas of pungent odor and is used especially as a bleach, oxidizing agent, and disinfectant in water purification

—symbol Cl see Chemical Elements Table