sodium lauryl sulfate

noun

sodium lau·​ryl sulfate -ˈlȯr-əl- How to pronounce sodium lauryl sulfate (audio)
-ˈlär-
: the crystalline sodium salt C12H25NaO4S of sulfated lauryl alcohol
also : a mixture of sulfates of sodium consisting principally of this salt and used as a detergent, wetting agent, and emulsifying agent (as in toothpastes, ointments, and shampoos)

Examples of sodium lauryl sulfate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), can be harsh. Sharon Brandwein, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2024 The vegan formulas contain no sulfates, silicones, parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), synthetic dyes, mineral oils and other potentially irritating ingredients, and the metallic honeycomb-like packaging is made from recycled materials. Danielle Directo-Meston, The Hollywood Reporter, 1 Aug. 2024 Sometimes — but not always — lower cost cleansers tend to feature the often irritating ingredient sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), says consultant dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed. Jacqueline Kilikita, refinery29.com, 18 June 2024 Sulfates: Sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are commonly used as foaming agents in shampoos. April Benshosan, Verywell Health, 9 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for sodium lauryl sulfate 

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sodium lauryl sulfate was in 1885

Dictionary Entries Near sodium lauryl sulfate

Cite this Entry

“Sodium lauryl sulfate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sodium%20lauryl%20sulfate. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

sodium lauryl sulfate

noun
: the crystalline sodium salt C12H25NaO4S of sulfated lauryl alcohol
also : a mixture of sulfates of sodium consisting principally of this salt and used as a detergent, wetting, and emulsifying agent (as in toothpastes, ointments, and shampoos)

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