triclosan: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical, Scientific
Quick answer
What does “triclosan” mean?
A synthetic broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent used in consumer products.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A synthetic broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent used in consumer products.
A polychloro phenoxy phenol compound used as a biocide in soaps, deodorants, toothpastes, and plastics to inhibit bacterial growth. Its use is controversial due to potential health and environmental impacts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or usage differences exist between BrE and AmE for this technical term. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
In both varieties, the word carries connotations of scientific debate, regulatory scrutiny, and public health concern.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both BrE and AmE, appearing primarily in specialized discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “triclosan” in a Sentence
Triclosan is [verb: found/banned/used] in [noun: product/soap].[Noun: Product/Soap] contains triclosan.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “triclosan” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The formulation was triclosanted to extend shelf life.
- They decided to triclosan the handwash.
American English
- The manufacturer triclosaned the liquid soap.
- They triclosan the plastic to inhibit mold.
adverb
British English
- The soap acted triclosanly against a broad spectrum of bacteria.
- It was formulated triclosanly.
American English
- The product was designed triclosanly for enhanced protection.
- It functioned triclosanly.
adjective
British English
- The triclosan ingredient list was clearly marked.
- They avoided triclosan-containing products.
American English
- They sought a triclosan-free deodorant.
- The triclosan controversy led to reformulation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in discussions of product formulation, regulatory compliance, and marketing ('triclosan-free' labels).
Academic
Used in research papers on microbiology, toxicology, environmental science, and public health.
Everyday
Rarely used. A consumer might encounter it on a product label or in a news article about its ban.
Technical
The primary domain. Used precisely in chemistry, pharmacology, and product safety data sheets.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “triclosan”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “triclosan”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “triclosan”
- Mispronunciation: /ˈtrɪkləsæn/. Misspelling: 'triclosen', 'triclosin'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The safety of triclosan is debated. Some regulatory agencies have restricted its use in consumer products due to concerns about bacterial resistance, hormonal effects, and environmental persistence.
It was commonly found in antibacterial soaps, body washes, toothpastes, deodorants, and some cosmetics and plastics.
It is banned or severely restricted in consumer antiseptic washes (like hand soaps) in several regions, including the United States and the European Union, but regulations vary globally.
Manufacturers often replace triclosan with other antimicrobials like benzalkonium chloride, or simply rely on traditional soap and water, which is equally effective for general hand hygiene.
A synthetic broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent used in consumer products.
Triclosan is usually technical, scientific in register.
Triclosan: in British English it is pronounced /traɪˈkləʊsæn/, and in American English it is pronounced /traɪˈkloʊsæn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. It is a technical term not used idiomatically.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'TRy to CLOSe off ANtibacterial growth' -> TRI-CLOS-AN.
Conceptual Metaphor
CLEANLINESS IS A CHEMICAL SHIELD (triclosan is metaphorically a shield against microbes).
Practice
Quiz
Triclosan is primarily used for its...