Solvent: meaning, definitions and examples

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solvent

 

[ ˈsɒlvənt ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

chemistry

A substance that dissolves a solute (a chemically different liquid, solid or gas), resulting in a solution. Solvents are commonly used in various industries, such as cleaning, painting, and pharmaceuticals.

Synonyms

cleaner, dissolvent, thinner

Examples of usage

  • The most commonly used solvent in households is water.
  • Acetone is a commonly used solvent in nail polish remover.
Context #2 | Noun

finance

A person or company that has the ability to pay its debts in the short term. Solvency is a key factor in assessing financial health and stability.

Synonyms

creditworthy, financially sound

Examples of usage

  • The company's strong financial performance indicated its status as a solvent business.
  • Investors look for solvent companies to minimize financial risk.
Context #3 | Adjective

chemistry

Capable of dissolving other substances. This property is crucial in various chemical processes and reactions.

Synonyms

dissolvent, dissolving

Examples of usage

  • Ethanol is a solvent liquid that can dissolve many organic compounds.
  • The chemist needed a solvent solution to mix the reagents.

Translations

Translations of the word "solvent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 solvente

🇮🇳 द्रावक

🇩🇪 Lösungsmittel

🇮🇩 pelarut

🇺🇦 розчинник

🇵🇱 rozpuszczalnik

🇯🇵 溶媒 (ようばい)

🇫🇷 solvant

🇪🇸 disolvente

🇹🇷 çözücü

🇰🇷 용매 (yongmae)

🇸🇦 مذيب

🇨🇿 rozpouštědlo

🇸🇰 rozpúšťadlo

🇨🇳 溶剂 (róngjì)

🇸🇮 topilo

🇮🇸 leysir

🇰🇿 еріткіш

🇬🇪 გამხსნელი

🇦🇿 həlledici

🇲🇽 disolvente

Etymology

The word 'solvent' originated in the early 17th century, derived from the Latin word 'solvēre' meaning 'loosen' or 'dissolve'. It first appeared in English in the context of chemistry, referring to substances that dissolve other substances. Over time, the term expanded to also include the financial meaning of being able to meet financial obligations. Today, 'solvent' is widely used in both scientific and financial contexts.

See also: absolve, dissolve, dissolvent, insolvency, insolvent, solvability, solvable, solver, solving, unsolvable.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,865, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.