Definition

1. Noun:

   • A chemical compound containing the bivalent group -O-O-: Specifically, an inorganic compound characterized by the presence of the peroxy group, where two oxygen atoms are bonded together.
   • A strong oxidizing and bleaching agent: A viscous liquid with potent oxidizing properties, commonly used for bleaching and, in diluted forms, as a mild disinfectant. In high concentrations, it can serve as an oxidizer in rocket propellants.

2. Verb:

   • To bleach or treat with peroxide: The act of applying hydrogen peroxide, typically to hair, to lighten its color.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Hydrogen peroxide is a common household peroxide used as an antiseptic.
  • The chemist explained the structure of the peroxide ion.
• Verb:
  • She decided to peroxide her hair for the summer.
  • Some people peroxide their hair to achieve a platinum blonde look.

Advanced Usage

• "Peroxide blonde": A term describing hair that has been artificially lightened to a very pale blonde using hydrogen peroxide.
  • Her peroxide blonde hair was a striking feature.

Variants and Related Words

• Hydrogen peroxide (n): The most common and familiar peroxide compound, H₂O₂.
  • Hydrogen peroxide bubbles when applied to a cut.
• Benzoyl peroxide (n): An organic peroxide compound often used in acne medications.
  • The cream contains benzoyl peroxide to treat blemishes.

Synonyms

• Bleach (n/verb): A substance or process used to whiten or lighten, often used interchangeably in the context of hair treatment.
• Oxidizer (n): A substance that causes oxidation, a key property of peroxides.

Related Phrases

• Peroxide value (n): A measurement used in chemistry to determine the amount of peroxide in a substance, often related to rancidity in oils.
  • A high peroxide value indicates the oil is starting to spoil.

Noun

1. an inorganic compound containing the divalent ion -O-O-
2. a viscous liquid with strong oxidizing properties; a powerful bleaching agent; also used (in aqueous solutions) as a mild disinfectant and (in strong concentrations) as an oxidant in rocket fuels

Verb

1. bleach with peroxide
   • She must peroxide her hair-it looks unnaturally blond