colloid

[ˈkɒlɔɪd]

colloid Definition

• 1. a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances, where one substance is dispersed throughout the other in small particles
• 2. a substance that is in this form

Using colloid: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "colloid" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Milk is a colloid of fat particles in water.

• Example

  The ink in a pen is a colloid of dye particles in a solvent.

• Example

  Blood is a colloid of red and white blood cells in plasma.

colloid Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for colloid

• suspension
• gel
• sol
• emulsion

Phrases with colloid

• colloid mill

  a machine used to reduce the particle size of a solid in suspension in a liquid, or to reduce the droplet size in an emulsion

  Example

  The colloid mill is used in the production of mayonnaise and other food products.

• colloidal silver

  a suspension of submicroscopic metallic silver particles in a colloidal base, used as a topical antiseptic

  Example

  Some people believe that colloidal silver has medicinal properties, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

• colloidal system

  a system in which one substance is dispersed throughout another in the form of small particles, such as a colloid or a suspension

  Example

  Aerosols, foams, and gels are all examples of colloidal systems.

Origins of colloid

from Greek 'kolla', meaning 'glue'

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Summary: colloid in Brief

A 'colloid' [ˈkɒlɔɪd] is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances, where one substance is dispersed throughout the other in small particles. Examples include milk, ink, and blood. A 'colloid' can also refer to a substance that is in this form. Related terms include 'colloid mill,' a machine used to reduce particle size, and 'colloidal silver,' a suspension of submicroscopic metallic silver particles used as a topical antiseptic.