What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
defoamer
Example
The defoamer was added to the mixing tank to prevent excessive foam from forming. [defoamer: noun]
Example
She used a defoaming agent to remove the foam that had accumulated on the surface of the liquid. [defoaming: gerund]
antifoam
Example
The antifoam was added to the reactor to prevent the foam from interfering with the chemical reaction. [antifoam: noun]
Example
The shampoo contained an antifoaming agent to reduce the amount of lather produced. [antifoaming: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Defoamer is more commonly used in industrial settings, while antifoam is more commonly used in consumer products.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between defoamer and antifoam?
Both defoamer and antifoam are technical terms and are typically used in formal or technical contexts.