kaolin

noun

ka·​o·​lin ˈkā-ə-lən 

: a fine usually white clay that is used in ceramics and refractories, as a filler or extender, and in medicine especially as an adsorbent in the treatment of diarrhea

Examples of kaolin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Oribe’s Serene Scalp Oil Control Dry Shampoo uses a blend of starches (corn, tapioca, and rice) along with kaolin clay to get that job done, plus rosebay extracts to regulate your scalp’s sebum production. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 18 June 2025

Quartz is just one of many minerals — there is also mica, feldspar and kaolin — that have kept the area economically relevant for centuries, and that will continue to sustain the region no matter the geopolitical climate, mine workers and local officials say. —Mike Belleme, New York Times, 31 May 2025

At the same time, kaolin clay keeps the product in place by absorbing excess oil production. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 8 May 2025

The formula stars ingredients like exfoliating, brightening charcoal, and creamy kaolin clay to achieve that mask effect to tackle hair below the surface, slowing future growth, all while moisturizing and cleansing pores. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 7 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

French kaolin, from Gaoling hill in China

First Known Use

circa 1741, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

kaolin

noun

ka·​olin

ˈkā-ə-lən

: a fine usually white clay used in making porcelain, in paper, and in medicines that treat diarrhea

Medical Definition

kaolin

noun

ka·​olin ˈkā-ə-lən 

: a fine usually white clay that is used in ceramics and refractories, as a filler or extender, and in medicine especially as an adsorbent in the treatment of diarrhea (as in food poisoning or dysentery)