peroxide
UK: pəˈrɒksaɪd | US: pəˈrɑːksaɪd
n. a compound containing two oxygen atoms bonded together, often used as a bleaching or disinfecting agent
vt. to treat or bleach with peroxide
The word "peroxide" combines the prefix per- (from Latin per, meaning "through" or "thoroughly") with oxide (from French oxygène, meaning "oxygen compound"). The term originally referred to compounds with an unusually high proportion of oxygen, emphasizing the idea of "thorough oxidation." Over time, it became specifically associated with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), a common disinfectant and bleaching agent.
She used peroxide to lighten her hair.
The dentist recommended a peroxide-based mouthwash.
Hydrogen peroxide bubbles when applied to a wound.
Avoid mixing peroxide with other chemicals.
The lab stored peroxide solutions in dark bottles to prevent decomposition.