Definition

Noun: A hydrogel is a solid, jelly-like material that can contain a large amount of water but does not dissolve in it. It is a network of polymer chains that absorb and retain water within its structure.

Usage

Hydrogels are used in various applications where water retention and a soft, flexible structure are needed. * Medical dressings often use hydrogel to keep wounds moist. * Some contact lenses are made from a silicone hydrogel for breathability. * Researchers are developing a hydrogel that can deliver drugs slowly.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: The term can function attributively to describe other nouns related to its composition or use.
  • Hydrogel patches are used for skincare.
  • The hydrogel matrix provides a scaffold for growing cells.

Variants and Related Words

• Hydrogels (plural noun): The plural form, referring to multiple instances or types of these materials.
• Superabsorbent polymer (SAP): A related material with extremely high water-absorption capacity, often a type of hydrogel.

Different Meanings

The term "hydrogel" has a specific technical meaning in materials science and chemistry. It does not have widely recognized alternative common meanings.

Synonyms

• Aquagel
• Water-retaining polymer
• Polymer gel (more general term)

Idioms

There are no common idioms using the word "hydrogel."

Phrasal Verbs

There are no phrasal verbs using the word "hydrogel."

Noun

1. a colloidal gel in which water is the dispersion medium