Dictionary
1detergent
adjective de·ter·gent \-jənt\
Definition of DETERGENT
: that cleanses : cleansing <a detergent oil>
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First Known Use of DETERGENT
1616
2detergent
noun
: a powder or liquid that is used to clean clothes, dishes, etc. : a chemical substance that is like soap
Full Definition of DETERGENT
: a cleansing agent: as a : soap b : any of numerous synthetic water-soluble or liquid organic preparations that are chemically different from soaps but are able to emulsify oils, hold dirt in suspension, and act as wetting agents c : an oil-soluble substance that holds insoluble foreign matter in suspension and is used in lubricating oils and dry-cleaning solvents
See detergent defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of DETERGENT
1676
DETERGENT Defined for Kids
detergent
noun de·ter·gent \di-ˈtər-jənt\
Definition of DETERGENT for Kids
: a substance that cleans
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