listerine
Definition
Listerine (noun): a trademarked brand of antiseptic mouthwash, typically used for oral hygiene to kill bacteria and freshen breath.
Usage Examples
- (She used the antiseptic mouthwash for oral care.)
- (He advised the brand of mouthwash for maintaining oral health.)
Advanced Usage
- "to gargle with listerine": to use the mouthwash as a gargle for throat disinfection.
- He gargled with listerine to soothe a sore throat. (He used the antiseptic liquid to treat throat irritation.)
Variants and Related Words
- Listerine (proper noun): the specific brand name itself.
- Listerine is a well-known product in dental care. (The brand is recognized globally.)
- Mouthwash (n): a broader term for any liquid used to rinse the mouth, of which listerine is a specific type.
- She prefers listerine over other mouthwashes. (She chooses this brand over alternatives.)
Synonyms
- Antiseptic mouthwash: a liquid that kills germs in the mouth.
- Oral rinse: a product used to clean the mouth and reduce plaque.
Related Idioms
- "Listerine smile": a colloquial expression referring to a fresh, clean-looking smile associated with using the mouthwash.
- He flashed a listerine smile at the camera. (He showed a bright, clean smile, implying good oral hygiene.)
Notes
- is a trademarked name and is often used generically to refer to any antiseptic mouthwash, though technically it refers only to the Johnson & Johnson product.