aerosol

UK: ˈeərəsɒl | US: ˈɛrəˌsɑl

Definition

  1. n. a suspension of fine solid or liquid particles in a gas (e.g., mist or smoke)

  2. n. a pressurized container releasing a substance as a fine spray

Structure
aero <air, from Greek *aēr*>sol <solution, from Latin *solutio*>
Etymology

The word aerosol combines aero- (from Greek aēr, meaning "air") and -sol (from Latin solutio, meaning "solution"). It was coined in the early 20th century to describe colloidal systems where particles are dispersed in a gas. The term reflects scientific advancements in understanding airborne particles, originally applied to fog and smoke, later extended to commercial spray products.

Examples

  1. The aerosol spray evenly coats the surface.

  2. Scientists study atmospheric aerosols to understand climate change.

  3. This deodorant comes in an aerosol can.

  4. Volcanic eruptions release large amounts of aerosols into the air.

  5. Avoid inhaling aerosol fumes directly.