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Noun: detergent  di'tur-junt
  1. A surface-active chemical widely used in industry and laundering
     
  2. A cleansing agent that differs from soap but can also emulsify oils and hold dirt in suspension
Adjective: detergent  di'tur-junt
  1. Having cleansing power
    - detersive

Derived forms: detergents

See also: purifying

Type of: cleaner, cleanser, cleansing agent, surface-active agent, surfactant, wetter, wetting agent

Encyclopedia: Detergent