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

The formula uses coconut surfactants to effectively cleanse even the most sensitive scalps sans irritation—while still creating a satisfying lather. —Arden Fanning Andrews, Vogue, 4 Mar. 2025

All Drunk Elephant products are 100% free of essential oils, silicones, dyes, solvent alcohols, and sulfate surfactants. —Bea McMonagle, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

Nonionic surfactants are commonly used in pharmaceutical products.10 Examples of nonionic surfactants include: Alkyl ether Alkyl glyceryl ether Polyoxy ethylene 4 lauryl ether Polyoxy ethylene acetyl ethers Cationic Surfactants Cationic surfactants have a positive charge on their hydrophilic end. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 4 Mar. 2025

Sulfate-free surfactants aren't as cleansing as sulfate surfactants. —Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

surface-active + -ant

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing surfactant

• co-surfactant

Rhymes for surfactant

• attractant
• extractant
• reactant

Medical 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