surfactant

noun

sur·​fac·​tant (ˌ)sər-ˈfak-tənt 

ˈsər-ˌfak-

: a surface-active substance (such as a detergent)

surfactant adjective

Examples of surfactant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Most prominently, sulfates (a surfactant that creates a bubbly lather) and silicones (a polymer that creates a shiny, smooth film on hair) have gotten a bad rap due mostly to the clean beauty movement, which really took off in the early 2010s and peaked nearly a decade later. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 13 Jan. 2025

This uses natural ingredients and surfactants to deal with mold and other contaminants on surfaces, such as bacteria. —Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 3 Jan. 2025

Then, in the relatively environmentally friendly process used at Mountain Pass, called froth flotation, a kind of chemical reagent called a surfactant is added to the slurry. —IEEE Spectrum, 27 Dec. 2024

According to Drunk Elephant, those who have a sensitivity to surfactant Mirataine CBS may experience a temporary adverse skin reaction. —Devonne Goode, Parents, 21 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

surface-active + -ant

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing surfactant

• co-surfactant

Medical Definition

surfactant

noun

sur·​fac·​tant (ˌ)sər-ˈfak-tənt, ˈsər-ˌ 

: a surface-active substance

specifically : a surface-active lipoprotein mixture which coats the alveoli and which prevents collapse of the lungs by reducing the surface tension of pulmonary fluids

surfactant adjective