soap
Beginner (A1)
IPA: //soʊp//
KK: /soʊp/
noun
Definition
A substance used for cleaning, usually in solid or liquid form, made from fats and oils that create lather when mixed with water.
Example
I need to buy some soap for washing my hands.
Conversation
Did you remember to buy some soap for the bathroom?
Oh no, I totally forgot!
We really need it; the old soap is almost empty.
Let's stop by the store later and grab some.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cleanser
detergent
lather
Antonyms
dirt
grime
pollutant
transitive verb
Definition
To cover or treat something with a substance that cleans, usually used for washing.
Example
She decided to soap the car before rinsing it off.
Tense Forms
Past: soaped
Past Participle: soaped
Conversation
Did you hear how he tried to soap his way out of trouble?
Yeah, I heard it was kind of embarrassing.
I can't believe he thought it would actually work.
Root Explanation
The word 'soap' originates from Old English 'sæpe', which means a substance used for washing. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*saipō', which also refers to a cleansing agent. The word 'soap' refers to a substance used for cleaning or washing.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word 'sæpe' that means a washing substance — this helps you remember that soap is used for cleaning.
Visually Confused Words
sop
sap
resoap