triclosan

noun

tri·​clo·​san trī-ˈklō-ˌsan How to pronounce triclosan (audio)
: a whitish crystalline powder C12H7Cl3O2 that is a phenyl ether derivative used especially formerly as a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent

Examples of triclosan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Specifically, products that include an ingredient called triclosan could take a toll on your bone health. — Maggie O'Neill, Health.com, 27 June 2019 Researchers are also exploring whether long-term triclosan exposure increases risk for skin cancer. — Melissa Healy, latimes.com, 31 May 2018 Many brands of hand soap contain the controversial chemical triclosan, which is linked to serious health conditions and causes cancer in mice. — Sarah Lazarus, CNN, 2 Dec. 2019 Some deodorants rely on scents and perfumes to mask odor, while others are loaded with chemicals, such as aluminum to help block sweat and triclosan to kill odor causing bacteria. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for triclosan

Word History

Etymology

tri- + chlor- + -san (of unknown origin)

First Known Use

1972, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of triclosan was in 1972

Rhymes for triclosan

See All Rhymes for triclosan

Browse Nearby Words

triclinohedric
triclosan
tricolette
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Triclosan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/triclosan. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

triclosan

noun
tri·​clo·​san trī-ˈklō-ˌsan How to pronounce triclosan (audio)
: a whitish crystalline powder C12H7Cl3O2 used especially as a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent (as in soaps, deodorants, and mouthwash)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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