Sol"vent (?), a. [L. solvens, p.pr. of solvere. See Solvable.]

1.

Having the power of dissolving; dissolving; as, a solvent fluid.

"the solvent body."

Boyle.

2.

Able or sufficient to pay all just debts; as, a solvent merchant; the estate is solvent.

 

© Webster 1913.


Sol"vent, n. Chem.

A substance (usually liquid) suitable for, or employed in, solution, or in dissolving something; as, water is the appropriate solvent of most salts, alcohol of resins, ether of fats, and mercury or acids of metal, etc.

2.

That which resolves; as, a solvent of mystery.

 

© Webster 1913.