humectant

noun

hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt How to pronounce humectant (audio)
: a substance that promotes retention of moisture
humectant adjective

Examples of humectant 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.
Luke says to specifically look for humectants that will attract and hold water. Audrey Noble, Vogue, 5 Nov. 2024 The humectant also helps cough syrups coat and lubricate your throat while treating a cold. Carley Millhone, Health, 8 Oct. 2024 Your skin will feel conditioned by the blend of humectants like hyaluronic acid, vitamin B and amino acids. Venus Wong, refinery29.com, 18 June 2024 Keep an eye out for humectants like glycerin or aloe vera, which draw moisture into the hair, keeping your curls hydrated and bouncy. Erin Parker, Allure, 16 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for humectant 

Word History

Etymology

Latin humectant-, humectans, present participle of humectare to moisten, from humectus moist, from humēre to be moist — more at humor entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of humectant was circa 1867

Dictionary Entries Near humectant

Cite this Entry

“Humectant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/humectant. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

humectant

1 of 2 adjective
hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt How to pronounce humectant (audio)
: promoting the retention of moisture
humectant properties
humectant materials

humectant

2 of 2 noun
: a substance (as glycerol or sorbitol) that promotes retention of moisture

More from Merriam-Webster on humectant

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