hydrogen peroxide

noun

: an unstable compound H2O2 used especially as an oxidizing and bleaching agent, an antiseptic, and a propellant

Examples of hydrogen peroxide 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.
Note that hydrogen peroxide can bleach color, so do the test first. Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 7 Dec. 2024 Even better, glosses are formulated without harsh chemicals like ammonia and hydrogen peroxide, which weaken keratin (the protein that keeps your strands strong). Jenna Ryu, SELF, 2 Dec. 2024 Stein recommends at least 30 seconds for the hydrogen peroxide to sanitize the sink's surface. Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 23 Nov. 2024 If earwax is stubbornly caked on, adding a tiny bit of hydrogen peroxide (three-percent concentration only) to the toothbrush can help break it up. Julia Ries, Outside Online, 14 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hydrogen peroxide 

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hydrogen peroxide was in 1872

Dictionary Entries Near hydrogen peroxide

Cite this Entry

“Hydrogen peroxide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hydrogen%20peroxide. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

hydrogen peroxide

noun
: an unstable liquid compound containing hydrogen and oxygen and used especially for bleaching and as an antiseptic

Medical Definition

hydrogen peroxide

noun
: an unstable compound H2O2 used especially as an oxidizing and bleaching agent and as an antiseptic

More from Merriam-Webster on hydrogen peroxide

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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