Definition of: soap

(sōp) noun
1. A cleansing agent consisting of sodium or potassium salts of fatty acids, made by decomposing the glyceryl esters of fats and oils with alkalies; a detergent. Hard soaps are made by the use of soda, while the potash soaps are soft.
2. A metallic salt of one of the fatty acids.
3. U.S. Slang Money used for sinister purposes; hence, any means of obtaining an end.
—v.t. To rub with soap; treat with soap. [OE sāpe]