methyl cellulose

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a grayish-white powder prepared from cellulose that swells to a highly viscous colloidal solution in water: used as a food additive and in water paints, leather tanning, and cosmetics.

Word History and Origins

Origin of methyl cellulose¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Just add methyl cellulose, a thickener that can withstand high temperatures.

From The Daily Beast