dental floss

noun

: a thread used to clean between the teeth

Examples of dental floss 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.
Dentists likely are champing at the bit, ready and willing to substitute some dental floss for a slab of chocolate. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2026 Some dental floss manufacturers have been quietly moving away from the synthetic material PTFE, which helped their product slip smoothly between teeth. — Margaret Hetherman The Washington Post, Arkansas Online, 19 Oct. 2026 Compostable Dental Floss Most standard dental floss is made of nylon and is not compostable. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Sep. 2026 Personal care products like dental floss, diapers, menstrual products, moisturizer and makeup are also potential sources of PFAS exposure, though some companies are discontinuing the use of those chemicals in their products. — Mara Hoplamazian, NPR, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for dental floss

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dental floss was in 1910

Rhymes for dental floss

See All Rhymes for dental floss

Browse Nearby Words

dentale
dental floss
dental hygienist
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dental floss.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dental%20floss. Accessed 30 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dental floss

noun
: a thread used to clean between the teeth

Medical Definition

dental floss

noun
: a thread used to clean between the teeth
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