Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

oleophilic

Adjective
ˌoʊliˈfɪlɪk
Definition
Oleophilic describes a material’s affinity for oil, meaning it readily absorbs or interacts with oily substances.
Examples
  • The oleophilic nature of the material allows it to effectively absorb oil spills.
  • Many oleophilic membranes are used in filtration processes to separate oils from water.
  • In the oil industry, oleophilic agents are essential for enhancing oil recovery.
Meaning
The term comes from the combination of ‘oleo,’ which means oil, and ‘philic,’ which means loving or attracted to.
Synonyms
  • Oil-loving
  • Oil-attracting
  • Oleophilic substances