Soap: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for a substance used for cleaning the body or other objects. Often refers to bar or liquid forms used in daily hygiene routines.

• She used soap to wash her hands
• The bar of soap smelled like lavender

Commonly used for cleaning clothes, dishes, and household surfaces. It is typically in liquid or powder form, designed for more heavy-duty cleaning than soap.

• He added detergent to the washing machine
• The dish detergent works well on greasy pots and pans

Specifically refers to a product used for facial or body cleaning, often part of a skincare regimen. Can be a lotion, foam, or gel.

• She used a facial cleanser to remove her makeup
• The cleanser left her skin feeling fresh and clean

Refers to the frothy, bubbly substance created when soap or cleanser is mixed with water and agitated. It highlights the action of washing rather than the product itself.

• She worked the shampoo into a rich lather
• The soap created a thick lather that covered her hands

Typically used to describe a cleansing agent made from salts of fatty acids. Commonly seen as a bar or liquid used for washing the body or certain objects.

• Don't forget to buy soap when you go to the store.
• She used some soap to wash her hands.

Refers to the frothy, bubbly foam created by mixing soap with water. Often used in context of washing the body, hair, or even shaving.

• Work the shampoo into a rich lather before rinsing.
• He created a thick lather with the shaving cream.

Often used in a more formal or medical context. Implies a thorough and possibly deep removal of dirt, impurities, or toxins. Sometimes used in relation to the skin or internal bodily processes.

• The detox program aims to cleanse the body.
• You should use this toner to cleanse your face before bed.

Describes the vigorous action of cleaning something by rubbing it hard, often with a brush or rough cloth. Can also refer to exfoliating the skin.

• She scrubbed the kitchen floor until it was spotless.
• He likes to scrub his face with that exfoliating wash.