solvent

[sol-vuhnt]

adjective

1. able to pay all just debts.

2. having the power of dissolving; causing solution.

noun

1. a substance that dissolves another to form a solution.

   Water is a solvent for sugar.

2. something that solves or explains.

solvent

/ ˈsɒlvənt /

adjective

1. capable of meeting financial obligations

2. (of a substance, esp a liquid) capable of dissolving another substance

noun

1. a liquid capable of dissolving another substance

   water is a solvent for salt

2. the component of a solution that does not change its state in forming the solution or the component that is present in excess Compare solute

3. something that solves

solvent

1. A substance that can dissolve another substance, or in which another substance is dissolved, forming a solution. Water is the most common solvent.

Other Word Forms

• solventless adjective
• solvently adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of solvent¹

First recorded in 1620–30; from Latin solvent-, stem of solvēns “loosening,” present participle of solvere “to loosen, release”; solve

Word History and Origins

Origin of solvent¹

C17: from Latin solvēns releasing, from solvere to free, _solve

Example Sentences

Most county departments have had to trim their budgets to ensure the government stays solvent.

From Los Angeles Times

Industrially, vats of genetically engineered E. coli act like living factories producing a variety of products from pharmaceuticals like insulin, vital for diabetes management, to various platform chemicals used to make fuels and solvents.

From BBC

“We are pursuing all other options to keep the hospital solvent,” Wadelton said, including soliciting donations and hoping for state intervention.

From Los Angeles Times

These solvents evaporate quickly and can be easily inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

From Salon

The bird was brought to the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center in Huntington Beach on July 23, where staff used vegetable oil and solvents to gradually and gently remove the remaining glue.

From Los Angeles Times