chlorhexidine

noun

chlor·​hex·​i·​dine klȯr-ˈhek-sə-ˌdīn 

-ˌdēn

: an antibacterial compound C₂₂H₃₀Cl₂N₁₀ used as a local antiseptic (as in mouthwash) and disinfectant especially in the form of its hydrochloride, gluconate, or acetate

Examples of chlorhexidine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These studies compared garlic extract mouthwash with chlorhexidine, and the authors used a standardized framework to structure their questions and measures. —Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 14 Dec. 2025

Lemongrass may be a good alternative to mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine, which can cause unwanted side effects.45 Note: More research on the long-term use of lemongrass essential oil for dental health is needed to confirm its benefits and safety.45 3. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 8 Dec. 2025

Overall, the results showed that stronger concentrations of garlic extract mouthwash performed about as well as chlorhexidine in fighting microbes. —Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Nov. 2025

In contrast, the chlorhexidine and Listerine mouthwashes killed both harmful and helpful microbes indiscriminately. —New Atlas, 1 July 2025

For example, chlorhexidine is used for treating conditions such as gum disease, mouth ulcers, and oral thrush. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 5 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary chlor- + hex- + -idine

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for chlorhexidine

• aconitine
• adamantine
• anopheline
• bromocriptine
• clomipramine
• creatinine
• desipramine
• guanethidine
• heterodyne
• imipramine
• meperidine
• neostigmine

Medical Definition

chlorhexidine

noun

chlor·​hex·​i·​dine klōr-ˈhek-sə-ˌdīn, klȯr-, -ˌdēn 

: an antibacterial compound C₂₂H₃₀Cl₂N₁₀ that is a biguanide derivative used as a local antiseptic (as in mouthwash) and disinfectant especially in the form of its hydrochloride, gluconate, or acetate