triclosan

noun

1. (uncountable)A widely used wide-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal agent, with molecular formula C₁₂H₇Cl₃O₂, which works by disrupting the growth of microbes, rather than actively killing them.

   “While the active ingredient in the Vicks product, triclosan, is covered under F.D.A. regulations for certain antiseptic uses, that does not include P.& G.’s directions that users should leave the sanitizer on their hands, without rinsing with water, according to the letter.”