Definition

Describing a substance that absorbs moisture from the air and turns into a liquid or solution.

Example

The deliquescent salt slowly dissolved as it absorbed water from the humid air.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a deliquescent substance?

No, I haven't. What does that even mean?

It's something that absorbs moisture and turns into a liquid.

That sounds interesting! I’d love to see one in action.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deliquescent → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "liquescent" (from Latin "liquescere", meaning to melt or become fluid). The word describes something that becomes fluid or melts away, particularly in the context of substances that absorb moisture from the air and dissolve.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'melts away' ('liquescent') as it absorbs moisture 'down' ('de-') — that's why deliquescent refers to substances that turn into liquid.

Visually Confused Words