Definition

A chemical compound that is a salt or ester derived from hypochlorous acid, often used for disinfection and bleaching.

Example

Hypochlorite is commonly used in swimming pools to keep the water clean.

Conversation

Have you heard about hypochlorite?

Yeah, I read it's used for cleaning and disinfecting.

Exactly! It's really effective against germs.

I should start using it more often, then.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypochlorite is formed from "hypo-" (meaning under or less than) and "chloros" (meaning green, referring to chlorine). The word describes a compound containing chlorine in a lower oxidation state than chlorate, hence the prefix 'hypo-' indicating a lesser degree.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hypo-' meaning 'less than' and 'chloros' referring to 'green' or chlorine, which helps you remember that hypochlorite is a compound with less chlorine than chlorate.

Visually Confused Words