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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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
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
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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about emollient
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