surfactants
noun/sərˈfæktənts/
Frequency rank: #17,346 most common English word
Meaning
substances that lower the surface tension between liquids, or between a liquid and a solid, helping them mix.

Example sentence
The cleaning product works so well because it contains powerful surfactants that break down grease and oil.
Synonyms & related words
- detergents
- emulsifiers
- cleansers
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