Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
saponify
verb
/səˈpɒnɪfaɪ/
Definition
To convert a substance into soap by a chemical process, typically involving the hydrolysis of fats or oils with an alkali.
Examples
- When oils are heated with a lye solution, they will saponify, resulting in a homemade soap.
- The ancient Egyptians used to saponify animal fats for cleansing purposes.
- In the soap-making process, lye reacts with triglycerides to saponify them.
Meaning
Saponification is the process where fats or oils are transformed into soap and glycerin, usually by reaction with an alkali.
Synonyms
- convert
- make soap
- soap
