penetrant adjective & noun. ['pɛnɪtr(ǝ)nt] M16.
[Latin penetrant- pres. ppl stem of penetrare: see PENETRATE, -ANT¹.]
A. adjective.
1. Having the property of penetrating or piercing. arch. M16.

2. fig. Having or showing mental penetration or insight; acute. arch. L16.

3. Genetics. Producing in the phenotype the characteristic effect of a gene or combination of genes. M20.
b. noun.
1. A person of penetration or insight. rare. Only in M18.

2. A coloured or fluorescent liquid used to penetrate cracks, pores, and other surface defects to facilitate their detection. M20.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲