Definition

A thick, greasy substance made from petroleum, commonly used as a moisturizer or protective barrier for the skin.

Example

She applied petrolatum to her dry lips to keep them moisturized.

Conversation

Have you ever tried using petrolatum for dry skin?

Yeah, I actually use it all the time; it works wonders!

I should start using it more often, then.

Definitely! It’s a great way to keep your skin moisturized.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Petrolatum is formed from "petro-" (meaning rock or stone, derived from Greek "petra") and "latum" (meaning spread or smeared, from Latin "latus"). The word refers to a substance that is derived from rock or stone and is spread or smeared, typically used in the context of a jelly-like substance derived from petroleum.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rock' ('petro-') and something that is 'spread' ('latum') to remember that petrolatum is a substance derived from rock that is spread or used like a jelly.

Visually Confused Words