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

Last year, the watchdog concluded that the Syrian Armed Forces had used chlorine gas canisters during a large-scale military operation. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

Other organic practices that might raise risk, Warriner said, include not adding chlorine to wash water, potentially causing cross-contamination during post-harvest washing, or using fungicide alternatives that are less effective than traditional fungicides at killing foodborne pathogens. —Sarah Garone, Health, 25 Nov. 2024

By Emma Barker Bonomo October 30, 2024 7:10 AM EDT The chlorine and minerals in shower water can be tough on your hair and skin, but most shower filters’ disposable refills can be wasteful. —Emma Barker Bonomo, TIME, 30 Oct. 2024

Before using chlorine bleach for laundry, check the care tag for guidance on whether a garment is bleach-safe. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 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