# pfc

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pfc
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a type of chemical used in some cleaning products and fire-fighting foam. It is also a common name for a private in the US military.

For teachers: a chemical compound used as a surfactant in industrial and consumer products, or a military rank in the United States Armed Forces. The specific chemical sense refers to perfluorinated compounds, while the military sense is a standard rank abbreviation.

## Examples

- The soldier was promoted to PFC after six months of service.
- Environmental scientists are studying the long-term effects of PFCs on local water supplies and wildlife health.
- While the military career path begins at PFC, the chemical industry's use of PFCs has raised significant regulatory concerns regarding their persistence in the global environment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.