petrolatum

/pɛtrəˈleɪtəm/

Definitions

1. noun

a waxy, semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum, used as a lubricant, as a protective coating, and in the manufacture of various products, such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

“The doctor applied a layer of petrolatum to the patient’s wound to protect it from infection.”

Synonyms

  • Vaseline
  • petroleum jelly

Antonyms

  • solvent