Javel water

Or Ja·velle water

[zhuh-vel, zha-]

noun

1. sodium hypochlorite, NaOCl, dissolved in water, used as a bleach, antiseptic, etc.

Javel water

/ ˈdʒævəl, dʒəˈvɛl /

noun

1. an aqueous solution containing sodium hypochlorite and some sodium chloride, used as a bleach and disinfectant

2. Also called: eau de Javelle. a similar solution made from potassium carbonate and chlorine

Word History and Origins

Origin of Javel water¹

1870–75; translation of French eau de Javel, after Javel former town, now in the city of Paris

Word History and Origins

Origin of Javel water¹

C19: partial translation of French eau de Javel, from Javel, formerly a town, now part of Paris