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

That means opting for an effortless, less-is-more approach, and seeking out products that protect hair and skin from sun, saltwater, and chlorine. —Alex Apatoff, Peoplemag, 15 July 2024

Safety Tips for Using Bleach to Remove Mildew If the clothing is white cotton or the care label says the garment can be bleached, chlorine bleach can be used to remove mildew. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2024

Composed of chlorine and sodium, salt has been an integral part of human history, dating back as far as the Neolithic period, when it was used to preserve food. —Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 5 July 2024

Taking a shower can also wash off sweat after a workout session and cleanse your skin of irritating chemicals like chlorine after a dip in the pool. —Nick Blackmer, Verywell Health, 3 July 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