alum Definition
- 1a white crystalline double sulfate of aluminum and potassium, used in water purification, leather tanning, and as an astringent and styptic
- 2a person who has been a student at a particular school or university
Using alum: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "alum" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The water treatment plant uses alum to purify the water.
Example
The leather industry uses alum to tan animal hides.
Example
She applied alum to the cut to stop the bleeding.
Example
He is an alum of Harvard University.
alum Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for alum
- potassium alum
- aluminum potassium sulfate
Phrases with alum
a block of potassium alum used as an astringent and antiseptic for shaving nicks and cuts
Example
He used an alum block to soothe his skin after shaving.
a fine powder of potassium alum used in cooking as a leavening agent and to crisp pickles
Example
The recipe calls for a pinch of alum powder to make the pickles crispy.
an organization of former students of a particular school or university
Example
The alumni association organizes events and fundraisers for the school.
Origins of alum
from Latin 'alumen', meaning 'bitter salt'
Summary: alum in Brief
'Alum' [ˈæləm] refers to a white crystalline double sulfate of aluminum and potassium, used in water purification, leather tanning, and as an astringent and styptic. It can also mean a person who has been a student at a particular school or university, as in 'He is an alum of Harvard University.' Phrases like 'alum block' and 'alum powder' refer to specific forms of alum used for shaving and cooking, respectively.
