Definition of emollient
1 : making soft or supple; also : soothing especially to the skin or mucous membrane an emollient hand lotion
2 : making less intense or harsh : mollifying soothe us in our agonies with emollient words — H. L. Mencken
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Recent Examples of emollient from the Web
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Rich in emollient olive oil, this cleanser effortlessly removes even the most stubborn of waterproof makeup, but also deposits a slew of antioxidants onto the skin, which protect from environmental, free-radical damage.
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Speaking in the courtyard of Louvre last night, Macron celebrated by striking a soothing, emollient tone.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'emollient.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of emollient
Latin emollient-, emolliens, present participle of emollire to soften, from e- + mollis soft — more at mollify
emollient
Definition of emollient
: something that softens or soothes
Recent Examples of emollient from the Web
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In real life, an emollient is a lotion for softening the skin.
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But the sound symbolism, plus the coincidental resemblance to emollient, suggests that someone has been softened up.
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An emollient, like shea butter, spackles the cracks between cells, yielding a temporary smoothness.
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Glossier Balm Dotcom: Speaking of purse buddies, leave it to the cool and young gang at Glossier to create a universal salve that’s long-lasting and emollient.
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After conditioning, a cold water rinse helps the cuticle seal in the emollients.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'emollient.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of emollient
1656
Medical Dictionary
Medical Definition of emollient
: making soft or supple; also : soothing especially to the skin or mucous membrane
emollient
Medical Definition of emollient
: an emollient agent an emollient for the hands
Learn More about emollient
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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about emollient
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