supernatant

noun

su·​per·​na·​tant ˌsü-pər-ˈnā-tᵊnt How to pronounce supernatant (audio)
: the usually clear liquid overlying material deposited by settling, precipitation, or centrifugation
supernatant adjective

Examples of supernatant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Quintero, the complaint said, did a fat transfer to the buttocks, chest, trapezius and biceps for Patient 1 after removing 3,000 cubic centimeters of supernatant fat from the chest, abdomen, flanks, and back. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 29 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin supernatant-, supernatans, present participle of supernatare to float, from super- + natare to swim — more at natant

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of supernatant was in 1859

Rhymes for supernatant

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Browse Nearby Words

supernal
supernatant
supernation
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Cite this Entry

“Supernatant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/supernatant. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

supernatant

noun
su·​per·​na·​tant ˌsü-pər-ˈnāt-ᵊnt How to pronounce supernatant (audio)
: the usually clear liquid overlying material deposited by settling, precipitation, or centrifugation
supernatant adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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