dental floss

noun

1. a soft, strong, waxed or unwaxed thread, usually made of nylon, for drawing between the teeth to remove food particles and prevent the buildup of plaque.

dental floss

noun

1. a soft usually flattened often waxed thread for cleaning the teeth and the spaces between them

Word History and Origins

Origin of dental floss¹

An Americanism dating back to 1905–10

Example Sentences

The use of dental floss silk between the teeth, provided care is taken not to press it against the gums, is also helpful.

From Project Gutenberg

Dental floss is generally needed to remove particles that have lodged between the teeth.

From Project Gutenberg

If you have no regular dental floss, use any white silk thread for the purpose.

From Project Gutenberg

The use of dental floss is fully as important as the use of a tooth brush.

From Project Gutenberg

In addition to our linked fingers, the psychic's hands were tied to ours with dental floss.

From Project Gutenberg