humectant

American  

[hyoo-mek-tuhnt, yoo-] / hyuˈmɛk tənt, yu- /

noun

1. a substance that absorbs or helps another substance retain moisture, as glycerol.

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adjective

1. moistening; diluting.

2. of or relating to a humectant or humectants.

humectant British  

/ hjuːˈmɛktənt /

adjective

1. producing moisture

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noun

1. a substance added to another substance to keep it moist

Etymology

Origin of humectant

1650–60; < Latin hūmectant- (stem of ( h ) ūmectāns ), present participle of ( h ) ūmectāre to moisten, equivalent to ( h ) ūmect ( us ) moist, damp ( see humid) + -ant- -ant

Example Sentences

Honey has been touted as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and humectant, making it an ideal skin-care ingredient.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 31, 2020

It’s a powdery mix of pink clay, honey — a humectant — and coconut that hydrates while it exfoliates.

From New York Times • Mar. 5, 2019

Speaking of hydration, it wouldn’t hurt to double down with some hyaluronic acid, which both experts said was an important humectant for plumping skin and retaining moisture.

From Slate • Nov. 30, 2018

It’s the smallest molecule of the acids, so it penetrates deepest to treat fine lines, dullness and superficial hyperpigmentation, and it is a humectant.

From New York Times • Jun. 25, 2018

Quicquid in buccam venit libere licet effutire, modo Latine fiat, modo habeat urbanitatem, modo caveat obscœnà verborum scurrilitate, postremo et lacrymis salsis humectant ora genasque' et tune demum veteranorum ritibus initiantur.

From Notes and Queries, Number 20, March 16, 1850 by Various