Soap

Definition

Soap is a substance made from natural oils or fats combined with an alkali, used for cleaning and washing. It can also refer to melodramatic television or radio dramas, often called "soap operas."

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /soʊp/
• Respelling: SOHP

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /səʊp/
• Respelling: SOHP

Etymology

The word "soap" originates from the Old English "sāpe," which referred to a cleaning agent made from lye and fats. Its root is derived from Proto-Germanic "*saipō" and is related to similar terms in Old High German and Old Norse. Soap-making dates back to ancient civilizations like Babylon and Egypt.

Derivatives

• Soapy (adjective)
• Soapbox (noun)
• Soapstone (noun)
• Soapwork (noun)
• Soap opera (noun)

Synonyms

• Cleanser
• Detergent
• Wash

Antonyms

• Dirt
• Grime
• Filth

Usage

The term "soap" is commonly used in daily life for cleaning products, as in "She bought a bar of soap from the store." In media, it refers to melodramatic television programs, for example, "That show is one of the most popular soaps on TV."

Related Terms

• Foam: A lather or bubbles produced by soap when mixed with water.
• Alkali: A chemical substance used in the production of soap.
• Glycerin: A by-product of soap-making, often used in skincare products.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A substance used for cleaning: Refers to a material created by combining fats and alkalis for washing.
  • Example: "The soap smelled of lavender."
• A melodramatic television or radio program: Informally used to describe soap operas.
  • Example: "She watches her favorite soap every afternoon."

Verb

• To apply soap for cleaning: Refers to the act of washing or scrubbing with soap.
  • Example: "He soaped his hands thoroughly."