The story
From dimethyl + dioctadecyl + ammonium + chloride
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Today it means: A chemical that helps soften, condition, and reduce static. It has a positive charge and long oily parts that let it stick to surfaces. Hence its used in objects like fabric softeners and conditioners. Full definition →
From dimethyl + dioctadecyl + ammonium + chloride
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.