Bleach Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⚪
bleach
[bliːtʃ ]
Definitions
household cleaning
A chemical used for cleaning and whitening clothes or surfaces by removing stains or color.
Synonyms
cleaner, disinfectant, whitener.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bleach |
mostly used for removing color or stains, especially in laundry and household cleaning.
|
Examples of usage
- The bleach is used to remove tough stains from white clothes.
- She used bleach to clean the bathroom tiles.
cleaning
To clean or whiten something using bleach.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bleach |
This entry seems to be duplicated and should be merged with the previous one.
|
| whiten |
Used to make something whiter in color, often related to teeth or laundry. Generally has positive connotations.
|
| cleanse |
Used for thorough cleaning, often in a way that removes impurities or toxins. Commonly used in skincare and health contexts.
|
| disinfect |
Used to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Often used in medical or cleaning contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- She decided to bleach her hair blonde.
- I need to bleach the kitchen countertops to remove the stains.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Bleach works by breaking down the chemical bonds in colored materials, effectively removing the color.
- It can kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses, making it a popular disinfectant in homes and hospitals.
- Mixing bleach with ammonia creates a hazardous gas called chloramine, which can be harmful to breathe.
Safety
- Bleach should always be used in well-ventilated areas to avoid respiratory problems.
- Skin contact with bleach can cause irritation and burns, so wearing gloves is advised when cleaning.
- When storing bleach, it should be kept out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Pop Culture
- In various films and books, bleach is often depicted as a means of hiding evidence due to its stain-removing properties.
- The anime 'Bleach' features characters who can see and interact with spirits, connecting the word to themes of purification.
- Cleaning product brands often use catchy advertising slogans focusing on the 'whitening' power of bleach to attract customers.
Literature
- In literature, bleach can symbolize cleansing or a fresh start, representing the removal of past stains or memories.
- Some authors use bleach metaphorically to discuss themes of erasure and the desire to purify negative experiences.
- Bleach is often associated with the harsh realities of life, reflecting characters’ struggles with their environment and choices.
Origin of 'bleach'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'bleach' comes from the Old English 'blæcan,' which means 'to whiten.'
- Historically, the term referred to the process of making fabrics white by exposing them to sunlight.
- The chemical sodium hypochlorite, commonly used in bleach, was first discovered in the 18th century.
The word 'bleach' originated from the Old English 'blǣcan' which meant 'to whiten'. It has been used for centuries to clean and whiten various materials. The modern use of bleach as a cleaning agent dates back to the 18th century when it was discovered that chlorine could be used to disinfect and whiten surfaces.