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
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The moisture activates the surfactants and softening agents embedded in the sheet. Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 8 May 2026 Coated with a specialized surfactant to ensure cell safety, these sensors achieve molecular uniformity, function reliably under physiological conditions, and overcome the limitations of previous quantum sensing technologies. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 29 Apr. 2026 Liquid Dish Soap and Liquid Laundry Detergent Dish soap is formulated with surfactants designed to cut through food and grease on dishes. Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Apr. 2026 Because curls tend to frizz and dry out, most of these shampoos avoid harsh detergents called surfactants. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026 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 13 May. 2026.

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

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