surfactant

noun

sur·​fac·​tant (ˌ)sər-ˈfak-tənt 

ˈsər-ˌfak-

: a surface-active substance (such as a detergent)

surfactant adjective

Examples of surfactant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Those mild surfactants are what give this gel the ability to form a very light, sudsy lather, which is important to me in a cleanser. —Nicola Dall'asen, Allure, 7 May 2025

Non-active ingredients, namely ingredients that do not have a therapeutic effect (such as emollients, surfactants, and emulsifiers), cannot currently compete because they are not designed to target specific skin conditions. —Joshua Britton, Time, 2 Apr. 2025

The formula uses coconut surfactants to effectively cleanse even the most sensitive scalps sans irritation—while still creating a satisfying lather. —Arden Fanning Andrews, Vogue, 4 Mar. 2025

All Drunk Elephant products are 100% free of essential oils, silicones, dyes, solvent alcohols, and sulfate surfactants. —Bea McMonagle, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

surface-active + -ant

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing surfactant

• co-surfactant

Rhymes for surfactant

• attractant
• extractant
• reactant

Medical Definition

surfactant

noun

sur·​fac·​tant (ˌ)sər-ˈfak-tənt, ˈsər-ˌ 

: a surface-active substance

specifically : a surface-active lipoprotein mixture which coats the alveoli and which prevents collapse of the lungs by reducing the surface tension of pulmonary fluids

surfactant adjective