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Diluent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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diluent

[หˆdษชl.ju.ษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

liquid preparation

A diluent is a liquid preparation used to dilute a medication before administration or to maintain the solubility of a compound. It is commonly used in pharmaceuticals to adjust the concentration of a drug or to aid in the dissolution of a substance.

Synonyms

diluting agent, diluting solution.

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Word Description / Examples
diluent

Used in scientific, medical, or industrial contexts to refer to a substance that dilutes another substance. Commonly used in the context of chemicals, medicines, or paints.

  • The pharmacist added a diluent to the solution to achieve the desired concentration.
  • Industrial paints often require a diluent to ensure the proper consistency.

Examples of usage

  • Add the diluent to the medication before injecting it.
  • The pharmacist recommended using a diluent to make the solution less concentrated.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In laboratories, diluents are often liquids like water or alcohol that help reduce the concentration of a solution.
  • Diluents can also be used in the production of pharmaceuticals to ensure accurate dosing.
  • In some industrial processes, diluents help manage the viscosity of materials like paints and inks.

Health

  • In medicine, diluents are crucial for safely administering vaccines and injections.
  • They can help in reconstituting powdered medications, making them ready for use.
  • Correct dilution is vital to ensure dosage safety and efficacy, preventing adverse reactions.

Food & Beverage

  • Common kitchen ingredients like water or broth act as diluents in cooking, making flavors less intense.
  • In the beverage industry, diluents are used to create different flavors and textures, such as in sodas or cocktails.

Environmental Science

  • In pollution control, water serves as a diluent to spread out harmful chemicals, reducing concentration in the environment.
  • Diluents play a role in oil spill clean-ups, where they help break down oil before it can do significant harm to ecosystems.

Origin of 'diluent'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'diluere', meaning 'to wash away' or 'to dissolve'.
  • In the late 19th century, the term started being used in chemistry to describe a process involving solvents.

The word 'diluent' originated from the Latin word 'diluere', which means 'to wash away'. It first appeared in English in the mid-19th century, primarily in the context of pharmacy and medicine. The concept of using diluents to adjust concentrations or aid in dissolution has been a common practice in the pharmaceutical industry.

See also: dilute, undiluted.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,061, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.