soap
UK: səʊp | US: soʊp
n. a substance used for washing or cleaning, typically made by reacting fats with an alkali
vt. to apply soap to something for cleaning
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The word "soap" traces back to Old English sāpe, derived from Proto-Germanic saipǭ. Its deeper roots likely connect to the Latin sāpō, borrowed from a prehistoric Germanic source. The original meaning centered on a cleaning agent made from animal fats and plant ashes. Unlike many modern English words, "soap" resists decomposition into smaller meaningful units—its compact form reflects its ancient, practical origins in daily life.
She washed her hands with lavender-scented soap.
The mechanic soaped the car parts before scrubbing off the grease.
Ancient Romans used soap made from goat fat and beech ash.
A bar of soap slipped from the bathroom shelf.
He soaped the dog thoroughly during its bath.