metallic soap

noun

: a salt of a monocarboxylic acid (as a higher fatty acid, resin acid, naphthenic acid) and usually a bivalent or trivalent metal (as calcium, cobalt, zinc, copper, lead, aluminum) that typically is insoluble in water but soluble in benzene and that is used chiefly in lubricants or driers, in thickening, waterproofing, or flatting, or in fungicides

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now