Javel water

or Ja·velle water

[ 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 calledeau 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