mordant

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   Any substance used to facilitate the fixing of a dye to a fibre; usually a metallic compound which reacts with the dye using chelation.

   In dyeing two mediums are required, the colouring matter and the mordant which fixes the dye in the wool.

2. 2
   verb

   To subject to the action of, or imbue with, a mordant.

   Mordant these goods for dyeing.

From French mordant, from Latin mordeō. Doublet of mordent.

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