Definition

A type of substance that helps mix ingredients that usually do not combine well, often used in food and medicine.

Example

Polysorbate is commonly added to ice cream to improve its texture and prevent separation.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of polysorbate?

Yeah, I think it's used as an emulsifier in some foods.

Right! I found it in that ice cream we had last week.

That makes sense, it was super smooth and creamy!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polysorbate → It is formed from "poly-" (meaning many) and "sorbate" (from Latin "sorbere", meaning to absorb). The word describes a compound that can absorb many substances, often used as an emulsifier in food and cosmetics.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') things being 'absorbed' ('sorbate') together, which helps you remember that polysorbate is used to mix different ingredients.

Visually Confused Words