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.
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.