Pronunciation: ˌ h ī -p ə - ' klo ̇ r- ə s-
Function: noun
Etymology: International Scientific Vocabulary
Date: 1841
: an unstable strongly oxidizing but weak acid HClO obtained in solution along with hydrochloric acid by reaction of chlorine with water and used especially in the form of salts as an oxidizing agent, bleaching agent, disinfectant, and chlorinating agent