Indicating the property of certain agents of altering the physicochemical nature of surfaces and interfaces, bringing about lowering of interfacial tension; they usually possess both lipophilic and hydrophilic groups. ... See: surfactant. ... (05 Mar 2000) ... 
Type: Term Pronunciation: sŭr′făs-ak′tiv Definitions: 1. Indicating the property of certain agents of altering the physicochemical nature of surfaces and interfaces, bringing about lowering of interfacial tension; they usually possess both lipophilic and hydrophilic groups.
[adj] - capable of lowering the surface tension of a liquid
adjective capable of lowering the surface tension of a liquid; used especially of detergents