chlorine

noun

chlo·​rine ˈklȯr-ˌēn 

-ən

: a halogen element that is isolated as a heavy greenish-yellow diatomic gas of pungent odor and is used especially as a bleach, oxidizing agent, and disinfectant in water purification see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of chlorine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The combination of bleach and vinegar results in a chemical reaction that creates toxic chlorine gas. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Oct. 2024

Use chlorine bleach, hot water, and a dry cloth or paper towel that has not been already used. —Devonne Goode, Parents, 23 Oct. 2024

Most garments made of wool, silk, cashmere, mohair, leather, spandex, fleece, or microfiber should not be washed with chlorine bleach. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Oct. 2024

But 17,000 residents had to evacuate due to potentially harmful chlorine lingering in the air. —Holly Yan, CNN, 22 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1810, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing chlorine

• chlorine dioxide
• chlorine monoxide

Kids Definition

chlorine

noun

chlo·​rine ˈklō(ə)r-ˌēn 

ˈklȯ(ə)r-,

-ən

: a nonmetallic element that is found alone as a heavy greenish yellow irritating gas having two atoms per molecule and a strong odor and that is used especially as a bleach, oxidizing agent, and disinfectant in water purification see element

Medical Definition

chlorine

noun

chlo·​rine ˈklō(ə)r-ˌēn, ˈklȯ(ə)r-, -ən 

: a halogen element that is isolated as a heavy greenish yellow gas of pungent odor and is used especially as a bleach, oxidizing agent, and disinfectant in water purification

—symbol Cl see Chemical Elements Table