1. A surface-active chemical widely used in industry and laundering 
2. A cleansing agent that differs from soap but can also emulsify oils and hold dirt in suspension

1. Having cleansing power
   - detersive

Derived forms: detergents

See also: deterge, detergency, purifying

Type of: cleaner, cleanser, cleansing agent, surface-active agent, surfactant, wetter, wetting agent

Encyclopedia: Detergent

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