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

The salt helps draw moisture out of the plant, accelerating the drying process, while the dish soap acts as a surfactant, allowing the solution to adhere to the leaves. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 31 July 2026

This uses natural ingredients and surfactants to deal with mold and other contaminants on surfaces, such as bacteria. — Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 6 July 2026

The cleanser has an organic compound called surfactants. — Mallory Carra, The Spruce, 14 June 2026

Shampoo is often made by combining a surfactant, like sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate, with a cosurfactant, commonly cocamidopropyl betaine, in water. — William Jones, Ascend Agency, 28 May 2026

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