Meaning & Definition of word "Solvent"
Solvent
/ˈsɒlvənt/
noun:
- 1. A substance, typically a liquid, that dissolves a solute, resulting in a solution.
- Example: Water is often referred to as the universal solvent due to its ability to dissolve many substances.
- 2. A liquid used to dissolve a particular solid, liquid, or gas in a solution.
- Example: Acetone is a common solvent used in nail polish remover.
- 3. A financial term describing a person or entity that is able to meet its financial obligations.
- Example: The company remained solvent despite the economic downturn.
adjective:
- 1. Having the ability to dissolve another substance.
- Example: Solvent properties make ethanol useful in many chemical reactions.
- 2. Able to pay debts; financially sound.
- Example: After restructuring their finances, the firm became solvent again.
Etymology
●From Latin 'solvent-' meaning 'loosen, dissolve', from 'solvere' which means 'to release, loosen'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
solvent abuse:
The ingestion of solvents to achieve a psychoactive effect.
solvent extraction:
A process of separating compounds based on their solubility in different solvents.
solvent recovery:
The process of reclaiming a solvent for reuse.
Related Words
solute:
A substance that is dissolved in a solvent.
solution:
A homogeneous mixture of solute and solvent.
dissolution:
The process of dissolving a solute in a solvent.