Dissolvent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dissolvent

[dɪˈzɒlvənt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

chemical substance

A dissolvent is a substance that has the ability to dissolve other substances.

Synonyms

dissolver, solvent, thinner.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dissolvent	A dissolvent is a substance that causes another material to dissolve, typically used in scientific or industrial settings. The chemist used a dissolvent to break down the compound
solvent	Solvent is commonly used in both scientific and everyday contexts to refer to a substance that dissolves a solute, resulting in a solution. It's widely understood and used across various fields. Water is known as a universal solvent because it can dissolve many substances
dissolver	A dissolver is often used in a more general sense and can refer to something that causes substances to dissolve, including in everyday situations. The dissolver effectively cleared the clog in the drain
thinner	Thinner is often used in the context of painting and decorating, referring to a liquid that dilutes paint to make it easier to apply. Use paint thinner to clean the brushes after painting

Examples of usage

The dissolvent was used to dissolve the solid particles in the solution.
The dissolvent is essential in the process of separating different components of a mixture.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

legal context

In legal terms, a dissolvent refers to a person or entity that dissolves or terminates an organization, partnership, or agreement.

Synonyms

dissolver, liquidator, terminator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dissolvent	Typically used in scientific or chemical contexts to refer to a substance capable of dissolving another substance. Water is a common dissolvent for many salts
terminator	Has a more aggressive or destructive connotation, often referring to someone or something that brings an end to a process, object, or entity. Frequently used in science fiction and action genres. In the movie, the terminator was programmed to eliminate any threats to its mission
dissolver	Can be used similarly to 'dissolvent' but may also refer to a person or thing that breaks down something non-chemical, like a problem or relationship. The engineer acted as a problem solver and a dissolver of obstacles within the project
liquidator	Often used in business or legal contexts to describe someone appointed to wind up the affairs of a company, often during bankruptcy. The liquidator was brought in to manage the company's assets and pay off creditors

Examples of usage

The dissolvent was responsible for ending the partnership between the two companies.
The dissolvent filed the necessary paperwork to dissolve the organization.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

Dissolvents are often liquids, like water or alcohol, used to dissolve solids or gases for various purposes.
In pharmaceuticals, dissolvents are crucial for formulating medicines, ensuring active ingredients are effective when ingested.
Certain industrial processes, like painting or cleaning, utilize dissolvents to achieve desired results.

Environmental Impact

Some dissolvents can be harmful to the environment, prompting regulations on their use to protect natural habitats.
Biodegradable dissolvents are being developed to lessen environmental harm while maintaining effectiveness.

Cultural References

In art, dissolvents are sometimes used to create effects in painting, allowing artists to manipulate the texture and fluidity of materials.
In literature, the concept of a dissolvent can symbolize change or transformation within a story, representing the breaking down of old ideas.

Technological Applications

Dissolvents play a key role in chemical engineering, aiding in the production of new materials and substances.
The electronics industry often uses specific dissolvents to ensure precision in the assembly of components.

Origin of 'dissolvent'

Main points about word origin

The term originates from the Latin word 'dissolvere', which means 'to loosen or dissolve'.
In older texts, the word was often associated with both physical and metaphorical ideas of breaking down barriers.

The word 'dissolvent' originated from the Latin word 'dissolvens', which is the present participle of 'dissolvere', meaning 'to dissolve'. The term has been used in various fields such as chemistry and law to describe the act of dissolution or separation.