Alkaline Meaning and Definition
Alkaline
Pronunciation
/ˈælkəlaɪn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A chemical substance having a pH value greater than 7, capable of neutralizing acids and exhibiting basic properties.
Examples
- Drinking alkaline water can help to neutralize acidity in the body.
- Baking soda is an alkaline substance often used in cooking.
Synonyms
- Basic
- Bicarbonate
Antonyms
- Acidic
- Acid
Etymology
The word “alkaline” comes from the Latin “alcalis,” meaning “alkali,” and the suffix “-ine,” denoting a substance having certain properties.
Usage Notes
In scientific contexts, “alkaline” refers to a substance with a pH value greater than 7. In everyday language, the term may be used more broadly to describe something that is basic or neutralizing.
Cultural References
Alkaline water has been popularized in some health and wellness circles, with claims that it can help neutralize acidity in the body and improve overall health.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Alkaline wash” is a phrase used in some beauty and grooming contexts to describe a cleansing process that uses alkaline substances to neutralize the skin’s pH.
Related Words or Phrases
Acid, Base, pH, Neutralize
Collocations
alkaline water, alkaline substance, alkaline properties
Frequency of Use
The term “alkaline” is not as commonly used in everyday language as other scientific terms, but it is widely recognized and used in various contexts, including scientific research and health and wellness communities.
Common Misspellings
Alacine, Alkalin, Alkelyne
Additional Information
Alkaline substances can be found naturally in many foods, such as milk, eggs, and vegetables. They can also be created synthetically through chemical processes. The pH level of a substance is determined by the concentration of hydrogen ions, with acidic substances having a pH below 7 and basic substances having a pH above 7.