hydrogen peroxide

noun

: an unstable compound H2O2 used especially as an oxidizing and bleaching agent, an antiseptic, and a propellant

Examples of hydrogen peroxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To get started, make a paste combining hydrogen peroxide with baking soda. Lauren David, Southern Living, 13 June 2025 Gilmour's rocket uses hydrogen peroxide for an oxidizer. ArsTechnica, 14 May 2025 And never squirt a contact-lens solution that contains hydrogen peroxide directly into your eye—again, any version of rewetting drops or regular ol’ saline is best here. Amy Marturana Winderl, SELF, 30 Apr. 2025 Denture tablets contain many of the same ingredients as basic household cleaners and laundry detergents, such as hydrogen peroxide stabilizers. Amy Brightfield, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hydrogen peroxide

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hydrogen peroxide was in 1872

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hydrogen peroxide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hydrogen%20peroxide. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

hydrogen peroxide

noun
: an unstable liquid compound containing hydrogen and oxygen and used especially for bleaching and as an antiseptic

Medical Definition

hydrogen peroxide

noun
: an unstable compound H2O2 used especially as an oxidizing and bleaching agent and as an antiseptic

More from Merriam-Webster on hydrogen peroxide

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!