I. ˈdilyəwənt noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin diluent-, diluens, present participle of diluere to wash away, dilute
: a diluting agent: as
a. : a volatile liquid (as toluene) used along with solvents in coating materials (as cellulose lacquers) especially for reducing the cost — compare thinner b
b. : an inert substance (as powdered talc) added to a mixture especially for reducing the concentration of active ingredients (as in an insecticidal dust) — compare extender 1, filler 1a(1)
II. adjective
Etymology: Latin diluent-, diluens, present participle of diluere
: making thinner or less concentrated by admixture : diluting