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borax

noun (1)
bo·​rax | \ ˈbȯr-ˌaks How to pronounce borax (audio) , -əks How to pronounce borax (audio) \

Definition of borax

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: a white crystalline compound that consists of a hydrated sodium borate Na2B4O7·10H2O, that occurs as a mineral or is prepared from other minerals, and that is used especially as a flux, cleansing agent, and water softener, as a preservative, and as a fireproofing agent

borax

noun (2)

Definition of borax (Entry 2 of 2)

: cheap shoddy merchandise

What are the Uses of borax?

A borate of sodium that occurs as a soft, light, colorless crystalline mineral, borax has a wide variety of uses. It can be used as a component of glass and pottery glazes in the ceramics industry, as a solvent in metallurgy, as a flux in welding and soldering, and as a fertilizer additive, a soap supplement, a disinfectant, a mouthwash, and a water softener. About 50 percent of the world’s supply comes from southern Californian deserts, including Death Valley.

First Known Use of borax

Noun (1)

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1932, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for borax

Noun (1)

Middle English boras, from Anglo-French boreis, from Medieval Latin borac-, borax, from Arabic būraq, from Persian būrah

Noun (2)

origin unknown

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More Definitions for borax

borax

noun
bo·​rax | \ ˈbō(ə)r-ˌaks How to pronounce borax (audio) , ˈbȯ(ə)r- How to pronounce borax (audio) , -əks\

Medical Definition of borax

: a white crystalline compound that consists of a hydrated sodium borate Na2B4O7·10H2O, that occurs as a mineral or is prepared from other minerals, and that is used especially as a flux, cleansing agent, and water softener and as a preservative

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