surfactant
noun
sur·fac·tant
(ˌ)sər-ˈfak-tənt 
ˈsər-ˌfak-
: a surface-active substance (such as a detergent)
surfactant
adjective
Examples of surfactant in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
But acrylic paints have additives called surfactants that help to keep pigments suspended in the paint tube rather than settling to the bottom.
—
Sarah Everts, Scientific American, 1 Apr. 2016
Even though it’s made with just 11 ingredients—none of which are harsh surfactants or sulfates—your child will enjoy it as a good sudsy shampoo.
—Sarah Bradley, Parents, 20 May 2024
The unique blend of enzymes and surfactants effectively removes dirt, sweat, and odors while preserving the fabric's integrity.
—Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 21 Apr. 2023
Commercial cleaners often contain powerful degreasers and surfactants designed to break down grease and grime with minimal scrubbing.
—Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY, 26 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for surfactant 
Sarah Everts, Scientific American, 1 Apr. 2016
Even though it’s made with just 11 ingredients—none of which are harsh surfactants or sulfates—your child will enjoy it as a good sudsy shampoo.
—Sarah Bradley, Parents, 20 May 2024
The unique blend of enzymes and surfactants effectively removes dirt, sweat, and odors while preserving the fabric's integrity.
—Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 21 Apr. 2023
Commercial cleaners often contain powerful degreasers and surfactants designed to break down grease and grime with minimal scrubbing.
—Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY, 26 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for surfactant
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'surfactant.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Surfactant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surfactant. Accessed 27 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
surfactant
noun
sur·fac·tant
(ˌ)sər-ˈfak-tənt, ˈsər-ˌ
: a surface-active substance
specifically
: a surface-active lipoprotein mixture which coats the alveoli and which prevents collapse of the lungs by reducing the surface tension of pulmonary fluids
surfactant
adjective
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