Spell Bee Word: emollient

Basic Details

Word: Emollient

Part of Speech: Noun

Meaning: A substance that makes skin smooth and soft; it can also help to soothe irritation.

Synonyms: Moisturiser, lotion, balm

Antonyms: Irritant, roughening agent

Idioms and Phrases

1. More than skin deep: Refers to something that is deeper than mere appearance or surface; it can involve emotional or substantive qualities. Example: "Her kindness is more than skin deep; she truly cares for others."
2. Soft as a baby's bottom: Used to describe something that is extremely soft and smooth. Example: "After applying the emollient, my skin felt soft as a baby's bottom."

Usage Examples

Example 1: After spending hours in the dry air, I used an emollient to nourish and hydrate my skin.

Example 2: The doctor recommended an emollient cream for soothing my dry, irritated patches.

Example 3: Emollients can be helpful for people with sensitive skin, as they provide relief from irritation.

Fun Fact

Did you know that emollients have been used for centuries? Ancient Egyptians used oils and creams to protect their skin from the sun and dryness!

Famous Quote

"The skin is a true reflection of our health, and emollients are essential for keeping it at its best." – Unknown

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What does "emollient" mean?

a) A food item
b) A substance for smoothing skin
c) A type of clothing
d) A musical instrument

Answer: b) A substance for smoothing skin

2. Which of these is a synonym of "emollient"?

a) Irritant
b) Moisturiser
c) Acid
d) Spice

Answer: b) Moisturiser

3. What is the opposite of "emollient"?

a) Soothing agent
b) Roughening agent
c) Moisturising cream
d) Balm

Answer: b) Roughening agent

4. Which sentence uses "emollient" correctly?

a) The emollient was very soft to touch.
b) The emollient made my skin feel smooth and hydrated.
c) I used the emollient to cook dinner.
d) The emollient is a type of fruit.

Answer: b) The emollient made my skin feel smooth and hydrated.

5. Which idiom means something is about deeper qualities beyond the surface?

a) Soft as a baby's bottom
b) More than skin deep
c) As hard as nails
d) Run of the mill

Answer: b) More than skin deep