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Glycerol - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Glycerol is a colorless, sweet-tasting liquid used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It acts as a humectant, retaining moisture, and is a key component of fats and oils.

glycerol

/ˈɡlɪsəˌrɔl/ /ˈɡlɪsərɒl/

Definition:

A sweet, colorless liquid used in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics as a solvent or humectant.

Synonyms:

glycerin, glycerine, propane-1, 2, 3-triol

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

(No direct antonyms; context-dependent)

Common Collocations:

glycerol soap, glycerol ester, glycerol solution

Derivatives:

glyceride, glycerolysis

Usage Tips:

Use "glycerol" when referring to its chemical or industrial applications; "glycerin" is common in everyday contexts.

Common Phrases:

glycerol backbone, glycerol derivative, glycerol-based

Etymology:

From French *glycérine*, derived from Greek *glykys* (sweet) + *-ol* (chemical suffix for alcohols).

Examples:

  • 1. Glycerol is a key ingredient in moisturizers.
  • 2. The lab technician measured the glycerol carefully.
  • 3. Glycerol helps keep food fresh longer.
  • 4. This soap contains natural glycerol for soft skin.

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