Detergent: meaning, definitions and examples
๐งผ
detergent
[dษชหtษrdสษnt ]
Definition
cleaning agent
A detergent is a cleaning agent that removes dirt and grease from surfaces. It is commonly used for washing clothes, dishes, and other household items.
Synonyms
cleaner, soap, washing powder.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| detergent |
This is used for cleaning dishes, clothes, and surfaces. It is a general term that can be used for both liquids and powders.
|
| cleaner |
Typically used for cleaning surfaces, windows, and other non-fabric items. Can refer to both liquid solutions and sprays.
|
| soap |
Commonly used for personal hygiene, like washing hands and body. It is also used for light cleaning tasks.
|
| washing powder |
Specifically refers to powdered detergent used in laundry to clean clothes.
|
Examples of usage
- It is important to use a detergent when doing laundry to ensure that clothes are properly cleaned.
- This detergent is specially formulated to remove tough stains from dishes.
- The detergent foams up when mixed with water, helping to lift dirt and grime.
- Many detergents are now environmentally friendly, using biodegradable ingredients.
- Some detergents are scented to leave a pleasant smell on cleaned items.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word originated from the Latin word 'detergere', meaning 'to wipe away' or 'to cleanse'.
- It began being used in English around the early 20th century as a term for cleaning agents.
- The prefix 'de-' implies removal, while 'tergere' refers to cleaning, emphasizing its function.
Science
- Detergents are made up of molecules called surfactants that can break down grease and dirt.
- These surfactants reduce the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread and penetrate fabrics better.
- There are two main types of detergents: anionic, which carry a negative charge, and cationic, which carry a positive charge.
History
- The first synthetic detergent was made in Germany during World War I when soap became scarce.
- After the war, these cleaning agents became popular in households due to their effectiveness on oily stains.
- In the 1950s, powdered detergents became a common household item, transforming laundry practices globally.
Environmental Impact
- Some detergents can harm aquatic life when they enter waterways, prompting the development of biodegradable options.
- Phosphates in some detergents can lead to excessive algae growth in water bodies, disrupting ecosystems.
- Many companies are now creating eco-friendly detergents that minimize environmental damage.
Pop Culture
- Detergent brands have become iconic, with some even featuring in advertisements that parody everyday life.
- Television shows and movies often use detergent in exaggerated ways to highlight characters' cleaning obsessions or mishaps.
- In the 1990s, a popular trend was to create custom blends of scented detergents for a personal touch in laundry.
Translations
Translations of the word "detergent" in other languages:
๐ต๐น detergente
๐ฎ๐ณ เคกเคฟเคเคฐเฅเคเฅเคเค
๐ฉ๐ช Reinigungsmittel
๐ฎ๐ฉ deterjen
๐บ๐ฆ ะดะตัะตัะณะตะฝั
๐ต๐ฑ detergent
๐ฏ๐ต ๆดๅค (ใใใใ)
๐ซ๐ท dรฉtergent
๐ช๐ธ detergente
๐น๐ท deterjan
๐ฐ๐ท ์ธ์
๐ธ๐ฆ ู ูุธู
๐จ๐ฟ detergent
๐ธ๐ฐ detergent
๐จ๐ณ ๆดๆถคๅ (xวdรญ jรฌ)
๐ธ๐ฎ detergent
๐ฎ๐ธ รพvottaefni
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะถัาัั ะทะฐั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแขแแ แแแแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ yuyucu vasitษ
๐ฒ๐ฝ detergente