dissolvent
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈzɒlvənt/
KK: /dɪˈzɑlvənt/
adjective
Definition
Able to cause a substance to dissolve in a liquid.
Example
The chemist used a dissolvent to mix the solid into the solution.
Conversation
Did you know that some cleaners are actually dissolvent?
Really? I thought they just cleaned surfaces.
Yeah, they can break down tough stains by being dissolvent.
That's interesting! I should pay more attention to the labels.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
solvent
liquid
fluid
Antonyms
insoluble
solid
stagnant
noun
Definition
A substance that can dissolve other materials, often used in chemical processes.
Example
Water is a common dissolvent used in many chemical reactions.
Conversation
Have you ever used a dissolvent for your art projects?
Yeah, I used one to clean my brushes after painting.
That sounds useful! I need to find a good dissolvent for mine too.
Root Explanation
Dissolvent → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "solvere" (meaning to loosen or dissolve). The word describes something that causes a substance to come apart or dissolve.
Memory Tip
Think of something that 'loosens' ('solvere') a substance 'apart' ('dis-') — that's why dissolvent means a substance that causes dissolution.
Visually Confused Words
insolvent
solvent
redissolve