emulsifier

noun

emul·​si·​fi·​er i-ˈməl-sə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

: one that emulsifies

especially : a surface-active agent (such as a soap) promoting the formation and stabilization of an emulsion

Examples of emulsifier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These foods are industrial products made with multiple ingredients, including additives such as emulsifiers, preservatives, and modified starches. —Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 4 Apr. 2026

Re-Consider Lecithins Lecithin is an additive sometimes used as an emulsifier to keep peanut butter smoother by preventing the natural separation of the oil from the peanut solids. —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 3 Apr. 2026

Dietitians note that protein powders are ultraprocessed, meaning whole food ingredients are significantly altered during manufacturing before sweeteners, emulsifiers and industrial ingredients are added. —Allison Palmer, Kansas City Star, 31 Mar. 2026

Depending on the brand, kettle corn is typically made with ingredients such as corn syrup, sugar, butter, salt, canola oil, and soy lecithin (an emulsifier or texture enhancer). —Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for emulsifier

• humidifier
• identifier
• intensifier
• preamplifier
• acquire
• attire
• bonfire
• campfire
• ceasefire
• conspire
• desire
• enquire

Kids Definition

emulsifier

noun

emul·​si·​fi·​er i-ˈməl-sə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

: a substance (as a soap) that helps to form and stabilize an emulsion

Medical Definition

emulsifier

noun

emul·​si·​fi·​er i-ˈməl-sə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

: one that emulsifies

especially : a surface-active agent (as a soap) promoting the formation and stabilization of an emulsion