Emulsion: meaning, definitions and examples

A liquid mixture where one liquid is dispersed in another but not fully combined, often used in scientific or culinary contexts.

• Salad dressings are often an emulsion of oil and vinegar.
• The chemist prepared an emulsion of drug particles for the experiment.

General term for any combination of different substances where the separate parts are still distinguishable, used in everyday language as well as in scientific contexts.

• The art student created a mixture of colors to achieve the desired shade.
• The laboratory tested the mixture of chemicals for reactions.

A combination of two or more substances, usually referring to a smooth and thorough combination, often used in the context of cooking, perfumes, and other areas where the goal is harmony between components.

• The chef created a perfect blend of spices for the curry.
• This tea is a blend of various herbs and flowers.

A mixture in which small particles are dispersed throughout a liquid or gas but are not dissolved, often used in medical or scientific fields.

• The doctor prescribed a suspension of medicine for the patient's cough.
• The scientist examined the suspension under a microscope.

Emulsion is typically used in chemistry and the cosmetic industry to describe a fine mixture of two liquids that usually do not mix well, such as oil and water.

• The chemist prepared an emulsion of water and oil for the experiment.
• Many skincare products contain emulsions to keep ingredients stable and effective.

Cream is often used in the context of skincare and culinary arts. It describes a thick, rich substance used for moisturizing skin or as a dairy product for cooking.

• She applied a moisturizing cream to her dry skin.
• The recipe calls for a cup of heavy cream to make the sauce richer.

Lotion is a more fluid and lightweight skincare product compared to cream, usually used for moisturizing and hydrating the skin.

• After taking a shower, he applied body lotion to keep his skin soft.
• The doctor recommended using a gentle lotion for her sensitive skin.

Serum is a concentrated skincare product, often water-based, used to deliver targeted treatments deeper into the skin.

• She uses a vitamin C serum every morning to brighten her complexion.
• The anti-aging serum promises to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Emulsions are mixtures of two liquids that don't normally mix, often created in scientific and industrial settings. They can also refer to culinary applications where two liquids, such as oil and water, are combined with the help of an emulsifier.

• The lab created an emulsion of oil and water for the experiment.
• Mayonnaise is a common emulsion made from oil and egg yolk.

Dressing is used primarily in culinary contexts, particularly for salads. It refers to a liquid mixture that enhances the flavor of the salad, often made from oil, vinegar, and various seasonings.

• She added a light vinaigrette dressing to the salad.
• The Caesar dressing brought out the flavors of the vegetables beautifully.

Sauces are used in cooking to add moisture, flavor, and visual appeal to dishes. They can be made from a variety of ingredients and can range from thick to thin in consistency.

• The pasta was topped with a rich tomato sauce.
• He made a delicate butter sauce for the fish.

Vinaigrette is a type of salad dressing made from oil and vinegar, often flavored with herbs, spices, and other ingredients. It is typically lighter and more acidic compared to other dressings.

• The tangy vinaigrette complemented the fresh greens nicely.
• She whisked together a simple vinaigrette of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.