hydrogen peroxide

noun

: an unstable compound H₂O₂ used especially as an oxidizing and bleaching agent, an antiseptic, and a propellant

Examples of hydrogen peroxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This uses a chemical solution of 2% hydrogen peroxide with the abrasive calcium pyrophosphate to whiten your teeth. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026

Lemon Juice, Vinegar, Hydrogen Peroxide, and Other Weak Acids Weak acids like white vinegar, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide are highly effective stain removers, particularly for treating low-pH stains like coffee and tea, protein stains like blood, and mineral stains like rust. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Apr. 2026

Gross held up a large jug of Clorox bleach and a brown bottle of hydrogen peroxide to show the jury what was used for disinfecting, then played a short video on how the process worked. —Judy L. Thomas, Kansas City Star, 20 Apr. 2026

Instead, clean it with a mix of hot tap water and hydrogen peroxide, or a weak vinegar solution. —Cody Godwin, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hydrogen peroxide

• aminoglycoside
• chlordiazepoxide
• dimethylformamide
• oligosaccharide
• paraformaldehyde
• polynucleotide
• ribonucleotide
• abide
• allied
• applied
• aside
• astride

Kids Definition

hydrogen peroxide

noun

: an unstable liquid compound containing hydrogen and oxygen and used especially for bleaching and as an antiseptic

Medical Definition

hydrogen peroxide

noun

: an unstable compound H₂O₂ used especially as an oxidizing and bleaching agent and as an antiseptic