'Detergent' definitions:
Definition of 'detergent'
(from WordNet)
adjective
Having cleansing power [syn: detergent, detersive]
noun
A surface-active chemical widely used in industry and laundering
noun
A cleansing agent that differs from soap but can also emulsify oils and hold dirt in suspension
Definition of 'Detergent'
From: GCIDE
- Detergent \De*ter"gent\, a. [L. detergens, -entis, p. pr. of detergere: cf. F. d['e]tergent.] Cleansing; purging. -- n. A substance which cleanses the skin, as water or soap; a medicine to cleanse wounds, ulcers, etc. [1913 Webster]
Synonyms of 'detergent'
From: Moby Thesaurus
- abstergent,
- cathartic,
- cleaner,
- cleaning,
- cleaning agent,
- cleaning solvent,
- cleanser,
- cleansing,
- cleansing cream,
- cold cream,
- cream,
- dentifrice,
- depurant,
- depurative,
- diuretic,
- emetic,
- enema,
- expurgatory,
- holystone,
- lotion,
- lustral,
- mouthwash,
- nauseant,
- pumice stone,
- purgative,
- purge,
- purging,
- purificatory,
- purifier,
- purifying,
- rinse,
- shampoo,
- soap,
- solvent,
- surfactant,
- synthetic detergent,
- tooth powder,
- toothpaste,
- wash,
- washing