WD‑40 is one of those acronyms that sounds mysterious, but it actually has a simple origin:
What WD‑40 Stands For
- WD = Water Displacement
- 40 = 40th formula
💡 Full meaning: “Water Displacement, 40th formula” – it was the 40th attempt by chemists to create a formula that would prevent rust and displace water.
Fun Facts
- Invented in 1953 by chemists at the Rocket Chemical Company in San Diego, California.
- Common uses: lubricating squeaky hinges, loosening rusted parts, protecting metal from corrosion, and even some household hacks.
- Despite viral posts, WD‑40 is not a miracle cleaner or polish—it’s mainly a rust-preventive lubricant.
I can make a short list of the safest and most effective WD‑40 hacks for home use that actually work, if you want.
