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

After each use, you’re left with clean hair (thanks to humectants like glycerin and butylene glycol) that’s extra shiny (from conditioners like coconut oil and sea kelp extract). —Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 24 July 2025

Additionally, glycerin, a reliable humectant, along with vitamin-rich sunflower seed extract, contributes essential moisture to prevent your hair from looking dry or overly stiff. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 10 June 2025

Examples of humectants include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 26 May 2025

As most skin care buffs know, hyaluronic acid is a holy grail humectant used in skin care and makeup to retain moisture, retain elasticity, and fight aging. —Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 26 June 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