Entry 3 senses · 2 variants Webster, 1913 dissolvent · dis·solv·ent · IPA a. n. 01 a. Having power to dissolve power to dissolve a solid body; as, the dissolvent juices of the stomach. 1. Having power to dissolve power to dissolve a solid body; as, the dissolvent juices of the stomach. 02 n. That which has the power of dissolving or melting other substances, esp. by mixture with them; a menstruum; a solvent. 1. That which has the power of dissolving or melting other substances, esp. by mixture with them; a menstruum; a solvent. “Melted in the crucible dissolvents.” — A. Smith. “The secret treaty of December acted as an immediate dissolvent to the truce.” — Mothley. 2. A remedy supposed capable of dissolving concretions in the body, such as calculi, tubercles, etc.(Med.)