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Showing results for mineral spirits. Search instead for vallisneria spiralis.

mineral spirits

American  

noun

(usually used with a plural verb)
  1. a volatile distillation product of petroleum, used as a thinner for paints and varnishes.


Etymology

Origin of mineral spirits

First recorded in 1885–90

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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If you’re using mineral spirits, pour some onto a cloth pad, then wipe across the floor; don’t pour it in a puddle.

From Washington Post Mar. 17, 2023

For removing padding residue, the slow evaporation rate of mineral spirits is an asset; it gives you time to remove the softened goo before it rehardens.

From Washington Post Mar. 17, 2023

This one features white-lacquered shelving, a DirecTV satellite dish and two pedal pumps for the mineral spirits used for gripping.

From New York Times Aug. 27, 2016

Assemble a firsts-aid kit In a surplus ammo can, place spare bearings, seals, a seal puller, marine-grade bearing grease, mineral spirits or kerosene, a small notepad and pencil, and this page of Field & Stream.

From Time Magazine Archive

“No. It’s from…” Without completing my thought, I grab the bottle of mineral spirits and start fumbling with the cap.

From "Popcorn" by Rob Harrell

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