Meaning & Definition of word "Bleach"
Bleach
/bliːtʃ/
noun:
- 1. A chemical agent used to lighten or remove color from materials.
- Example: We need to buy some bleach to clean the stains from the countertop.
- 2. A solution of sodium hypochlorite and water that is used for disinfecting or whitening.
- Example: I added bleach to the laundry to get the whites extra bright.
verb:
- 1. To remove color or lighten the color of (something) using a chemical process.
- Example: She decided to bleach her hair for a new look.
- 2. To make (something) white or colorless by exposure to sunlight or by the use of chemicals.
- Example: The sun will bleach the fabric if left outside for too long.
- 3. To cause to become void of color or to lighten in shade.
- Example: 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.
Related Words
disinfectant:
A chemical used to eliminate germs and bacteria.
whitening:
The process of making something whiter or brighter.
stain remover:
A product used to eliminate stains from fabrics.
Slang Meanings of bleach
Meaning: To alter drastically or clean something to an extreme degree.
● Example Sentence: I had to bleach the whole room after the party.
Meaning: To make someone feel drained or exhausted.
● Example Sentence: The long meeting really bleached me.