| Noun | 1. | sulfate - a salt or ester of sulphuric acidsalt - a compound formed by replacing hydrogen in an acid by a metal (or a radical that acts like a metal) SLS, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulphate - a caustic detergent useful for removing grease; although commonly included in personal care items (shampoos and toothpastes etc.) it can irritate skin and should not be swallowed | |