antiperspirant

[ an-ti-pur-sper-uhnt ]

noun

1. an astringent preparation for reducing perspiration, usually containing aluminum or zirconium and used to prevent body odor and clothing stains.

antiperspirant

/ ˌæntɪˈpɜːspərənt /

noun

1. an astringent substance applied to the skin to reduce or prevent perspiration

adjective

1. reducing or preventing perspiration

Word History and Origins

Origin of antiperspirant¹

First recorded in 1940–45; anti- + perspire + -ant

Example Sentences

But research doesn’t really confirm any of this—in fact, there’s no evidence to suggest that aluminum antiperspirant causes breast cancer.

From Slate

A lot of people wear aluminum antiperspirant and a lot of people get breast cancer—so it’s easy to find some crossover between the two.

From Slate

Sixty participants were divided into three groups: The first group applied antiperspirant in the morning, the second group in the morning and evening, and the third group only in the evening.

From Slate

Be wary of fragrance products that are labeled “aluminum-free” and claim to offer the benefits of antiperspirant.

From Slate

Many people use the terms deodorant and antiperspirant interchangeably.

From Slate

Related Words

• cleanser
• cosmetic
• disinfectant