Meaning & Definition
noun
A chemical agent used to lighten or remove color from materials.
We need to buy some bleach to clean the stains from the countertop.
A solution of sodium hypochlorite and water that is used for disinfecting or whitening.
I added bleach to the laundry to get the whites extra bright.
verb
To remove color or lighten the color of (something) using a chemical process.
She decided to bleach her hair for a new look.
To make (something) white or colorless by exposure to sunlight or by the use of chemicals.
The sun will bleach the fabric if left outside for too long.
To cause to become void of color or to lighten in shade.
He accidentally bleached the shirt while trying to remove a stain.
Etymology
Old English 'bleacan', meaning 'to make white'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
bleach out:
To fade or remove color from something completely.
bleach blonde:
Referring to hair that has been lightened significantly using bleach.
bleach solution:
A mixture of water and bleach used for cleaning and disinfecting.
Slang Meanings
To alter drastically or clean something to an extreme degree.
I had to bleach the whole room after the party.
To make someone feel drained or exhausted.
The long meeting really bleached me.