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

/ sŏl′vənt /

1. A substance that can dissolve another substance, or in which another substance is dissolved, forming a solution. Water is the most common solvent.

Derived Forms

• ˈsolvently, adverb

Other Words From

• solvent·less adjective
• solvent·ly adverb

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

"Remember, insurance regulation wants to ensure that insurers remain solvent to pay for claims, this means to ensure solvency, they need more premiums and capital to ensure they have enough money to pay future losses," Nyce explained.

From Salon

The public are being warned about fake bottles of Glen’s Vodka which have been found to contain an industrial solvent that can cause death in severe cases.

From BBC

"Products sampled were found to contain isopropyl alcohol, so they are unsafe. Isopropyl alcohol is an industrial solvent and is not intended for human consumption," it said.

From BBC

Drinking the solvent "can quickly lead to alcohol poisoning and in severe cases death", the FSA said.

From BBC

It’s an issue that Jane, “Colored Television’s” protagonist, has to confront when she is given the opportunity to cash in on her own biracial background for Hollywood money and a chance to make her family financially solvent.

From Los Angeles Times