detergent

Pronunciation

• US: /dɪˈtɜrdʒənt/
• UK: /dɪˈtɜːdʒənt/

Origin

From Latin 'detergere': de- (away) + tergere (to wipe) First recorded use: 1610s

Part of Speech

noun, adjective

Meanings

1. noun

A cleaning agent or substance used for washing clothes, dishes, or surfaces

• "She poured some detergent into the washing machine."
• "The dish detergent cut through the grease effectively."

2. adjective

Having cleansing power or properties

• "The detergent properties of this solution make it effective against stains."

Related Words

• Forms:
  • No other forms commonly used
• Synonyms:
  • (noun) cleanser, cleaning agent, soap, washing powder
  • (adjective) cleansing, cleaning, detersive

Collocations

• liquid detergent
• laundry detergent
• dish detergent
• mild detergent
• biodegradable detergent

Memory Tips

1. Think "DE-DIRT-AGENT" - an agent that removes dirt
2. Remember the Latin root 'tergere' (to wipe) - detergent wipes away dirt
3. Associate with "deterge" (to cleanse) - though less common, this helps remember the cleaning function

Usage Notes

• Often used specifically for synthetic cleaning compounds, as distinct from natural soaps
• Commonly used in household and industrial cleaning contexts
• Can be found in both powder and liquid forms