reducing agent

noun

: a substance that reduces a chemical compound usually by donating electrons

Examples of reducing agent 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.
Once there, the ions reacted with chitosan, a natural reducing agent that helped transform the gold back into its metallic form. Ben Guarino, Scientific American, 29 Oct. 2024 Plus, the advanced odor-reducing agents ensure your laundry comes out smelling fresh and clean every time! Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 11 Apr. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1816, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reducing agent was in 1816

Dictionary Entries Near reducing agent

Cite this Entry

“Reducing agent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reducing%20agent. Accessed 10 Jan. 2025.

Medical Definition

reducing agent

noun
: a substance that reduces
especially : a substance (as hydrogen, sodium, or hydroquinone) that donates electrons or a share in its electrons to another substance

called also reductant

compare oxidizing agent

More from Merriam-Webster on reducing agent

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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