humectant

noun

hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt 

: a substance that promotes retention of moisture

humectant adjective

Examples of humectant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This formula is also notably hydrating, thanks to the addition of glycerin (a humectant), which attracts moisture, and squalane (an emollient), which helps seal it in. —Macaela MacKenzie, Glamour, 24 Apr. 2025

Like hyaluronic acid, glycerin is a humectant that draws water into the skin to keep it from drying out. —Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 18 Apr. 2025

Like hyaluronic acid, glycerin is another water-attracting humectant that leaves skin with a supple feel. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 4 Apr. 2025

The formula is chock-full of humectants, which draw moisture into the skin to leave it feeling hydrated and plump. —Zoë Weiner, Glamour, 25 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin humectant-, humectans, present participle of humectare to moisten, from humectus moist, from humēre to be moist — more at humor entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1867, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for humectant

• expectant
• protectant
• disinfectant

Medical Definition

humectant

1 of 2 adjective

hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt 

: promoting the retention of moisture

humectant properties

humectant materials

humectant

2 of 2 noun

: a substance (as glycerol or sorbitol) that promotes retention of moisture