absorbent cotton
Definition
Noun: A soft, fluffy, and highly porous form of cotton from which the natural waxes and oils have been removed, making it capable of absorbing liquids readily. It is commonly used for medical, cosmetic, and first-aid purposes.
Usage
This term is used as a non-count noun to refer to the material itself. It is typically used in contexts related to healthcare, hygiene, and personal care. * The nurse applied absorbent cotton to the wound. * For this experiment, you will need a small ball of absorbent cotton. * Absorbent cotton is a staple in any first-aid kit.
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used attributively (like an adjective) before other nouns to specify the type of cotton.
- She bought a package of absorbent cotton balls.
- The procedure requires absorbent cotton pads.
Variants and Related Words
- Cotton wool (chiefly British English): This is a common synonym for "absorbent cotton."
- Absorbent gauze: A related medical material, but it is a woven fabric, not raw cotton.
- Non-absorbent cotton: Raw cotton that retains its natural waxes.
Synonyms
- Cotton wool (UK)
- Surgical cotton
- Purified cotton
Related Phrases
- A wad of absorbent cotton: A small, pressed mass of the material.
- He used a wad of absorbent cotton to stop the bleeding.
- To pack with absorbent cotton: To fill a cavity or space with this material.
- The dentist packed the socket with absorbent cotton after the extraction.
Noun
-
cotton made absorbent by removal of the natural wax
