propylene glycol

noun

: a sweet hygroscopic viscous liquid C3H8O2 made especially from propylene and used especially as an antifreeze and solvent, in brake fluids, and as a food preservative

Examples of propylene glycol in a Sentence

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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.
In addition, some formulas contain propylene glycol, a humectant that helps sunscreens absorb into the skin but can trigger skin irritation in certain individuals. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 28 Oct. 2026 Even nicotine-free formulas contain flavorings and solvent agents like propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026 However, inhaled aerosols can still contain harmful substances such as propylene glycol, which is often found in certain medicines, cosmetics and food products. — Emma Fenske, The Conversation, 13 Oct. 2026 Most of all, Kay praises the formula for its smoothing and radiance-boosting effects, which can be chalked up to humectants like glycerin and propylene glycol, plus brightening Japanese persimmon leaf extract and camellia seed oil. — Jenny Berg, InStyle, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for propylene glycol

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propylene glycol was in 1870

Rhymes for propylene glycol

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Browse Nearby Words

propylene
propylene glycol
propylene oxide
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Cite this Entry

“Propylene glycol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propylene%20glycol. Accessed 30 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

propylene glycol

noun
: a sweet hygroscopic viscous liquid C3H8O2 made especially from propylene and used especially as an antifreeze and solvent, in brake fluids, and as a food preservative

More from Merriam-Webster on propylene glycol

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about propylene glycol

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