hypochlorous acid

noun

hy·​po·​chlo·​rous acid ˌhī-pə-ˈklȯr-əs- How to pronounce hypochlorous acid (audio)
: 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 Using hypochlorous acid, keeping this spray in your purse for on-the-go spritzing is an easy way to keep away bacteria that accumulates on your face throughout the day. Tatjana Freund, ELLE, 8 Aug. 2023 Face mists are ideal for toning skin and boosting its hydration, but many of these staples also happen to include calming ingredients like aloe, thermal spring water, and hypochlorous acid, which play a key role in helping to minimize irritation. Tiffany Dodson, Harper's BAZAAR, 19 July 2023 The spray's star ingredient is hypochlorous acid, which the body naturally produces to protect against bacteria and inflammation. Tiffany Dodson, Harper's BAZAAR, 19 July 2023 Based on all the expert endorsements and many users’ glowing recommendations, this hypochlorous acid spray seems more of a beauty arsenal essential for those with sensitive skin than a social media fad. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2022 When dissolved in water, chlorine releases free-available chlorine, also known as hypochlorous acid. Joseph Truini, Popular Mechanics, 29 Apr. 2023 Who should use hypochlorous acid? Myranda Mondry, Allure, 30 Sep. 2022 What is hypochlorous acid? Megan Decker, refinery29.com, 14 Dec. 2022 Curious to learn more about hypochlorous acid? Shannon M. Bauer, Health.com, 4 May 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hypochlorous acid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hypochlorous acid was in 1841

Dictionary Entries Near hypochlorous acid

Cite this Entry

“Hypochlorous acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypochlorous%20acid. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

hypochlorous acid

noun
hy·​po·​chlo·​rous acid -ˌklōr-əs-, -ˌklȯr- How to pronounce hypochlorous acid (audio)
: 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

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