The spelling of the word "drycleaned" may seem confusing, but it follows a logical pattern of English spellings. The first syllable "dry" is pronounced [draɪ], with a long "i" sound. The second syllable "clean" is pronounced [kliːn], with a long "e" sound. The final "ed" ending indicates past tense and is pronounced [dɪd], with a short "i" sound. So, when we combine the three syllables, we get "drycleaned" [draɪkliːnd], meaning the act of cleaning clothes with a solvent instead of water.
The term "drycleaned" refers to a method of cleaning fabrics and garments using non-aqueous solvents instead of water. It is a process typically done by professional dry cleaners.
Drycleaning involves the removal of dirt, stains, and odors from clothes without immersing them in water. Instead, a solvent, usually a petroleum-based substance called perchloroethylene or "perc," is used to clean the items. The solvent is non-polar, meaning it does not have an electric charge and therefore does not interact with the fabric as water would. It effectively dissolves and lifts away grease, oils, and other types of stains that are typically difficult to remove with traditional washing methods.
The process begins with a thorough inspection of the fabric to identify any spots or stains that require special attention. The garments are then placed in a machine designed for drycleaning, where they are subjected to a carefully controlled cycle. This cycle typically includes soaking the garments in the solvent, agitation to loosen dirt, rinsing, and finally, drying.
Drycleaning is especially suitable for delicate fabrics that may be damaged by water and traditional washing methods, such as silk, wool, and cashmere. It also effectively removes stubborn stains that might not come out with regular laundering. Additionally, the process can help to preserve the color, texture, and overall quality of the garments.
It is important to note that "dryclean only" care labels found on certain clothing items indicate that they should not be washed with water and instead require professional drycleaning to maintain their integrity.
The word "drycleaned" combines two elements, "dry" and "cleaned".
The term "dry" comes from Old English "dryge" and Middle English "drȳg", which ultimately trace back to the Proto-Germanic word "draugiz". It originally referred to the absence of moisture or liquid.
The term "cleaned" stems from Middle English "clen(n)en" and Old English "clǣnsian", meaning "to make clean". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "klainijan" and the Proto-Indo-European root "g̑lei-", meaning "to shine" or "to gleam".