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

Know your skin type and which ingredients work for it, choose natural, vegan and cruelty-free products worth investing in, and watch for fillers like artificial colors and PEG surfactants if your skin is sensitive. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 6 Nov. 2026

These tiny grease-cutters are packed with enzymes and surfactants that cut through stubborn stovetop grime. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 29 Oct. 2026

Strong surfactants Since hydration should be one of the number one skin-care goal for psoriasis patients, using intense cleansers could lead to trouble. — Kara McGrath, Allure, 22 Oct. 2026

Duarte notes that giving products time to work isn’t just for disinfecting, and explains that any product with surfactants, like degreasers, needs time to lift and loosen grease and grime. — Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 14 Oct. 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