noun

emulsion

ih-MUL-shun/ɪˈmʌlʃn/

A mixture in which tiny droplets of one liquid are dispersed in another.

The shaken jar holds an emulsion of tiny oil droplets dispersed in water.

Two matching glass jars show oil and water before and immediately after shaking: distinct liquid layers on the left, a cloudy temporary emulsion on the right.

Etymology

eLatinout

+mulsLatinto milk

+ionLatinaction or process

The pieces give the image of 'milking out.' Milk supplies the classic example of the modern meaning: tiny drops of fat dispersed through another liquid rather than dissolved in it.

In context

How2D26:01

when you compare it with the just just the emulsion paint so much much difference

How to paint over stains on the wall How to block remove stain from the wall coffee oil wine leak

More examples

Mayonnaise is a thick emulsion of oil and water.
The emulsion separates if you leave it standing too long.
Many skin creams are emulsions that blend oil and water.

Forms

emulsion · emulsions

emulsify verb — To mix liquids into an emulsion.

emulsifier noun — A substance that helps form or stabilize emulsions.

Similar words

mixture: Any combination of substances, not specifically liquid droplets.
dispersion: Includes scattered solid particles as well as liquid droplets.