silica gel

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a highly adsorbent gelatinous form of silica, used chiefly as a dehumidifying and dehydrating agent.

silica gel

noun

1. an amorphous form of silica capable of absorbing large quantities of water: used in drying gases and oils, as a carrier for catalysts and an anticaking agent for cosmetics

Word History and Origins

Origin of silica gel¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

Although silica gel can be expensive, you can always reuse it.

From Popular-Science

For a speedy version of the air-drying method, cover your blossoms in a moisture-absorbing desiccant like silica gel, which is made up of silicon dioxide, a key component of sand.

From Popular-Science

Hot and cold packThe silica gel inside the Arctic Flex reusable therapy bag is pliable even straight out of the freezer, so you can wrap it around any sore area to reduce swelling.

From Popular-Science