bentonite

noun

ben·​ton·​ite ˈben-tə-ˌnīt How to pronounce bentonite (audio)
: an absorptive and colloidal clay used especially as a sealing agent or suspending agent (as of drugs)
bentonitic
ˌben-tə-ˈni-tik How to pronounce bentonite (audio)
adjective

Examples of bentonite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Workers then lower these containers into bedrock shafts, surrounding them with swellable bentonite clay to absorb moisture and block movement. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 23 Oct. 2026 The two-step treatment starts with a potent trio of glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids to tackle uneven tone, fine lines, and rough texture, followed by a mask with kaolin and bentonite clays. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 21 Oct. 2026 Long before tourism, Milos made its fortune from rich deposits of bentonite, perlite, and other minerals. — Rachel Howard, Travel + Leisure, 7 May 2026 At its core is volcanic-ash bentonite clay, an ingredient rich in minerals including calcium, magnesium, and silica. — Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 16 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bentonite

Word History

Etymology

Fort Benton, Montana

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bentonite was in 1898

Rhymes for bentonite

See All Rhymes for bentonite

Browse Nearby Words

Benton
bentonite
bent out of shape
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bentonite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bentonite. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bentonite

noun
ben·​ton·​ite ˈbent-ᵊn-ˌīt How to pronounce bentonite (audio)
: an absorbent clay

Medical Definition

bentonite

noun
ben·​ton·​ite ˈbent-ᵊn-ˌīt How to pronounce bentonite (audio)
: an absorptive and colloidal clay used in pharmacy especially to stabilize suspensions
bentonitic
ˌbent-ᵊn-ˈit-ik How to pronounce bentonite (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on bentonite

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bentonite

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