hypochlorous acid

noun

hy·​po·​chlo·​rous acid ˌhī-pə-ˈklȯr-əs- 

: an unstable strongly oxidizing but weak acid HClO obtained in solution along with hydrochloric acid by reaction of chlorine with water and used especially in the form of salts as an oxidizing agent, bleaching agent, disinfectant, and chlorinating agent

Examples of hypochlorous acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While not every product in the brand’s SOS collection includes hypochlorous acid (an excellent anti-acneic ingredient), the serum does. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 29 Jan. 2026

The skincare benefits of hypochlorous acid Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties eliminate bacteria, viruses, and fungi on the skin, which can kill infections and treat conditions like acne and eczema, Garshick says. —Erica Sweeney, Time, 28 Jan. 2026

On the metal surface, PMS and chloride ions (Cl⁻) are activated, producing highly reactive oxidants such as singlet oxygen and hypochlorous acid. —Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 8 Jan. 2026

Some people are swearing by using disinfectant spray containing hypochlorous acid. —Meghan Schiller, CBS News, 6 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hypochlorous acid

• antacid
• placid

Medical Definition

hypochlorous acid

noun

hy·​po·​chlo·​rous acid -ˌklōr-əs-, -ˌklȯr- 

: an unstable strongly oxidizing but weak acid HClO obtained in solution along with hydrochloric acid by reaction of chlorine with water and used especially in the form of salts as an oxidizing agent, bleaching agent, disinfectant, and chlorinating agent