detergent

adjective

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de·ter·gent | \ di-ˈtər-jənt

Definition of detergent

(Entry 1 of 2)

: that cleanses : cleansing a detergent oil

detergent

noun

Definition of detergent (Entry 2 of 2)

: a cleansing agent: such as

a : soap

b : any of numerous synthetic water-soluble or liquid organic preparations that are chemically different from soaps but are able to emulsify oils, hold dirt in suspension, and act as wetting agents

c : an oil-soluble substance that holds insoluble foreign matter in suspension and is used in lubricating oils and dry-cleaning solvents

Synonyms More Example Sentences Phrases Containing detergent Learn More About detergent

Examples of detergent in a Sentence

Noun We have tried different laundry detergents. add the detergent to the washing machine before putting in the clothes

Recent Examples on the Web: Adjective Being a skin focused detergent brand requires integrity, continuous improvement, and a commitment to what’s best for people, regardless of how popular that may be. — Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 14 Aug. 2022 The team changed the playing field for detergent raw materials. — Kao Contributor, Forbes, 9 Aug. 2022 The chamois will get more detergent exposure, and will rinse cleaner. — Joe Lindsey, Outside Online, 17 July 2021 The soapy bucket method: Add a few drops of detergent soap to a bucket half filled with water. — Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Apr. 2022 Geller said her team is working on evaluating some detergent sheet products now, but that consumers can still look up the individual ingredients used in the products. — Lisa Held, Fortune, 27 Sep. 2021 Using a clean, white cloth, sponge the stain with the detergent-vinegar solution and then blot until the liquid is absorbed. — Caroline Picard, Good Housekeeping, 21 Jan. 2021 Last year, an ad for a detergent brand showing a Hindu child protecting a Muslim child during the festival of colors had elicited a boycott call too. — Washington Post, 14 Oct. 2020 The washer-dryer makes realistic sounds and boasts quite a few features: detergent drawer, folding tabletop, storage baskets, and tumbling drum. — Lindsey Hunter Lopez, USA TODAY, 7 Oct. 2020 Recent Examples on the Web: Noun Fill your sink with a few inches of hot water and add some dish detergent, or a cup or two of white vinegar. — Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Sep. 2022 This sparked her mission to provide a natural, one-stop-shop detergent that stands true to its name. — Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 14 Aug. 2022 Most of the products on the drug store shelf are behind lock and key, even everyday items such as deodorant, toothpaste, candy, dish detergent, soap and aluminum foil. — Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN, 30 July 2022 Just be sure to wash it with cold water using mild detergent (no bleach) and drying it with the lowest heat setting. — Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE.com, 21 July 2022 For a softener dispenser, GE recommends soaking it in a solution of ¼ cup heavy-duty liquid detergent, one cup bleach and one gallon warm water. — Jeanne Huber, Washington Post, 23 May 2022 Thickeners include detergent, egg whites, and dishwasher soap. — Kyle Mizokami, Popular Mechanics, 7 Apr. 2022 Items being sought for Mutual Ground include laundry detergent, new extra large bath towels, toilet paper, glass cleaner and Pine-Sol. — Beacon-news Staff, chicagotribune.com, 25 Mar. 2022 In general, granite surfaces should be cleaned with soft cotton cloths or clean rag mops along with neutral cleaners, mild liquid dishwashing detergent and water, or cleaners made specifically for granite. — Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Aug. 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'detergent.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Learn More About detergent

Dictionary Entries Near detergent

detergency

detergent

deteriorable

Statistics for detergent

Last Updated

29 Aug 2022

Cite this Entry

“Detergent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/detergent. Accessed 24 Sep. 2022.

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More Definitions for detergent

detergent

noun

de·ter·gent | \ di-ˈtər-jənt

Kids Definition of detergent

: a substance that cleans

detergent

adjective

de·ter·gent | \ di-ˈtər-jənt

Medical Definition of detergent

(Entry 1 of 2)

: having a cleansing action

detergent

noun

Medical Definition of detergent (Entry 2 of 2)

: a cleansing agent: as

a : soap sense 1

b : any of numerous synthetic water-soluble or liquid organic preparations that are chemically different from soaps but are able to emulsify oils, hold dirt in suspension, and act as wetting agents