Solvent: meaning, definitions and examples
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solvent
[ ˈsɒlvənt ]
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
Examples of usage
- The most commonly used solvent in households is water.
- Acetone is a commonly used solvent in nail polish remover.
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.
chemistry
Capable of dissolving other substances. This property is crucial in various chemical processes and reactions.
Synonyms
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
Word origin
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.