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

While most cleans rely on numerous solvents and disinfectants, for run-of-the-mill carpet stains Ben relies on the basics - using either washing powder or liquid and warm water.

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He also became the engine that kept the club solvent and thriving, partly by offering the property as a wedding venue.

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Sanberg’s associates said in interviews that they believed he was trying to keep Aspiration solvent until a public offering or other infusion of funds.

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

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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.

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