chlorhexidine

noun

chlor·​hex·​i·​dine klȯr-ˈhek-sə-ˌdīn How to pronounce chlorhexidine (audio)
-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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
My eye drop regimen quickly morphed into a medication cocktail (including chlorhexidine, PHMB, and Brolene, which are other eye drops prescribed for AK). Michelle Vartan, SELF, 12 July 2024 With ingredients like ketoconazole and chlorhexidine, Nootie Medicated Dog Shampoo is a reliable choice for pet owners looking to tackle this all-too-common problem. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024 The shampoo's chlorhexidine content also provides added protection against bacteria and fungus. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 5 July 2023 This shampoo contains chlorhexidine, which is an antibacterial ingredient that helps to keep the skin clean and free of infection. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 16 Oct. 2022 The mix of chlorhexidine and ketoconazole act as an antifungal, antimicrobial, and antiseptic to get rid of the current skin issue while preventing new ones from occurring. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 16 Oct. 2022 The Strawfield Pets Chlorhexidine Shampoo also contains chlorhexidine, an antiseptic agent. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 16 Oct. 2022 It’s made with chlorhexidine and ketoconazole, which eliminate skin problems at the source. The Salt Lake Tribune, 31 Oct. 2022 To address bad breath, plaque and gingivitis the ADA recommends looking for chlorhexidine, chlorine dioxide, cetylpyridinium chloride and essential oils such as eucalyptol, thymol and methyl salicylate. Jamie Kim, Good Housekeeping, 21 July 2022

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary chlor- + hex- + -idine

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chlorhexidine was in 1957

Dictionary Entries Near chlorhexidine

Cite this Entry

“Chlorhexidine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chlorhexidine. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

chlorhexidine

noun
chlor·​hex·​i·​dine klōr-ˈhek-sə-ˌdīn, klȯr-, -ˌdēn How to pronounce chlorhexidine (audio)
: 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!