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resolvent

1. That which has the power of resolving, or causing solution; a solvent.

2. (Science: medicine) That which has power to disperse inflammatory or other tumours; a discutient; anything which aids the absorption of effused products.

3. (Science: mathematics) An equation upon whose solution the solution of a given pproblem depends.

Origin: L. Resolvens, p. Pr. Of resolvere: cf. F. Resolvant.