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

• solvently adverb
• solventless adjective

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

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

Remove the cap, and make capital gains, dividends and interest income subject to the tax, and Social Security will remain fully solvent into the foreseeable future.

From Los Angeles Times

"These crops are harvested, washed, processed into a juice, and the colour is extracted with water or other solvents," says Paul Manning, chief executive officer at Sensient.

From BBC

"Sadly, with no solvent options available, the directors then took the difficult decision to file for the appointment of administrators."

From BBC