hydrogen peroxide

noun

: an unstable compound H2O2 used especially as an oxidizing and bleaching agent, an antiseptic, and a propellant

Examples of hydrogen peroxide 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.
Cream of Tartar & Lemon Juice Paste Like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, cream of tartar and lemon shockingly has cleaning and brightening properties that are effective for lifting dirt and stains off grout lines. Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 10 Oct. 2025 The Dream Chaser program ended up suffering from frequent delays due to mishaps, design changes, and the complex nature of its three-mode propulsion system that can shift between low, medium, and high thrust by swapping from hydrogen peroxide to a mixture of peroxide and RP-1 fuel. New Atlas, 5 Oct. 2025 Try to keep both dry between uses, disinfect the brush head weekly (soaking it in hydrogen peroxide or antibacterial mouthwash will do the trick), and replace your toothbrush every three to four months. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2025 Formulated without alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, the TheraBreath Whitening Fresh Breath Oral Rinse uses glucose oxidase and enzymes called papain to help break up stains and kill bad-breath-causing bacteria—all without aggravating sensitive teeth and gums. Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hydrogen peroxide

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hydrogen peroxide was in 1872

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Cite this Entry

“Hydrogen peroxide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hydrogen%20peroxide. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

hydrogen peroxide

noun
: an unstable liquid compound containing hydrogen and oxygen and used especially for bleaching and as an antiseptic

Medical Definition

hydrogen peroxide

noun
: an unstable compound H2O2 used especially as an oxidizing and bleaching agent and as an antiseptic

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