humectant

noun

hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt 

: a substance that promotes retention of moisture

humectant adjective

Examples of humectant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This moisturizer is fragrance-free and contains plenty of humectants and water-binding ingredients. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 27 Nov. 2024

Common humectants include hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which draw water into the skin, while occlusives like beeswax and petroleum jelly will act as a physical barrier to prevent moisture from evaporating. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 21 Oct. 2024

Editor tip: Combining hyaluronic acid and humectants delivers instant hydration and works overtime to keep your skin moisturized all day. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 22 Oct. 2024

Luke says to specifically look for humectants that will attract and hold water. —Audrey Noble, Vogue, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin humectant-, humectans, present participle of humectare to moisten, from humectus moist, from humēre to be moist — more at humor entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1867, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

humectant

1 of 2 adjective

hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt 

: promoting the retention of moisture

humectant properties

humectant materials

humectant

2 of 2 noun

: a substance (as glycerol or sorbitol) that promotes retention of moisture