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Glycerine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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glycerine

[หˆษกlษชsษ™หŒriหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical compound

Glycerine, also known as glycerol, is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is sweet-tasting and non-toxic. It is widely used in the food industry as a sweetener and preservative. Additionally, glycerine is an important component in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and personal care products where it serves as a humectant to retain moisture. Its ability to dissolve in both water and alcohol makes it a versatile ingredient in various formulations.

Synonyms

1,2,3-propanetriol, glycerol.

Examples of usage

  • Glycerine is often added to soaps for its moisturizing properties.
  • Many food products contain glycerine as a sweetening agent.
  • In skincare, glycerine helps to keep the skin hydrated.
  • Glycerine is used in the formulation of many cough syrups.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Used in food as a sweetener and humectant, helping to retain moisture in products like cakes and candies.
  • It can be found in certain candies and is often used in baking to create softer textures.
  • Glycerine is also a common ingredient in herbal medicine preparations, aiding in the extraction of herbs.

Health and Beauty

  • A key component in many skincare products, it helps to hydrate skin by drawing moisture from the air.
  • Often used in toothpastes, contributing to a smooth texture and preventing moisture loss.
  • Glycerine is known for its soothing properties and is frequently used in cough syrups and throat lozenges.

Industrial Applications

  • In manufacturing, itโ€™s employed as a plasticizer in products like paints and plastics, enhancing flexibility.
  • Glycerine serves a role in the production of nitroglycerin, a key ingredient in explosives and heart medications.
  • It is utilized as a solvent for chemical reactions, aiding the production of various products.

Cultural Significance

  • Glycerine has appeared in numerous songs and media, symbolizing smoothness or emotion, like in the song 'Glycerine' by Bush.
  • In traditional cultures, glycerine has been used for centuries in ointments and remedies to treat skin conditions.
  • Artists have incorporated glycerine in mediums for creative expression, noting its unique properties as a binder.

Origin of 'glycerine'

Main points about word origin

  • The term derives from the Greek word 'glykys', meaning 'sweet', reflecting its sweet taste.
  • First identified in 1779 by the chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele, it was initially derived from the process of soap making.
  • Glycerine was once known by the name 'glycerol' in chemical settings, emphasizing its role as an alcohol.

The word 'glycerine' comes from the French term 'glycรฉrine,' which in turn is derived from the Greek word 'glykys,' meaning 'sweet.' The discovery of glycerol dates back to the 18th century when it was first isolated by the Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele in 1779 during his experiments with soap making. Initially considered a byproduct of the soap-making process, glycerine garnered attention due to its properties and versatile applications. Throughout the 19th century, the compound was further studied and recognized for its utility in various industries including food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Today, glycerine is produced on a large scale and remains an essential ingredient in many products worldwide.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,745, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.