surfactant

noun

sur·​fac·​tant (ˌ)sər-ˈfak-tənt How to pronounce surfactant (audio)
ˈsər-ˌfak-
: a surface-active substance (such as a detergent)
surfactant adjective

Examples of surfactant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Another focus is the development of sustainable surfactants that avoid fluorine or silicon. Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2025 The researchers suggest focusing instead on using several different surfactants in the mixture. Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 26 Aug. 2025 In the world of textile production, surfactants help dyes consistently penetrate fabric. Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 22 Aug. 2025 Most commercial wetting agents contain surfactants similar to those in dishwashing liquids and laundry detergents. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 16 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for surfactant

Word History

Etymology

surface-active + -ant

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of surfactant was in 1950

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Surfactant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surfactant. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

surfactant

noun
sur·​fac·​tant (ˌ)sər-ˈfak-tənt, ˈsər-ˌ How to pronounce surfactant (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on surfactant

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