triclosan

[ trahy-kloh-san, trahy-kloh-suhn ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a white solid compound, C 12 H 7 Cl 3 O 2 , with antibacterial and antifungal properties and numerous commercial uses, as in laundry detergents, toothpastes, toys, clothing, and housewares: it is no longer allowed in personal soaps and hand sanitizers, having been declared unsafe and ineffective by the FDA, which has also called for its ban in similar antiseptic products used in hospitals and other healthcare settings. : TCS

Word History and Origins

Origin of triclosan¹

First recorded in 1970–75; tri- ( def ) + c(h)lo(r) ²( def ) + -san (a suffix of unknown origin)

Example Sentences

Triclosan can be toxic to people, so governments have banned it in some products.

From Science News For Students

It took six days for triclosan to coat the beads, Rubin says.

From Science News For Students

It carries a conditioner that contains triclosan, which has been linked to promoting the growth of breast cancer cells.

From The Daily Beast

Minnesota cited the risk of “hormone disruption” from triclosan as the rationale for its action.

From The Daily Beast

Plus, Procter & Gamble has already removed triclosan from its Crest toothpaste.

From The Daily Beast

It is the connection of triclosan to dioxin that has appropriately raised the hackles of so many.

From The Daily Beast