I know this topic is unlikely to pique any native speaker's curiosity, but bear with me, I am trying to learn the difference between froth, foam, lather and suds.
I feel these terms are not always interchangeable even though they mean more or less the same. There isn't anything called shaving froth. Yet, I can't explain clearly the difference between froth, foam, lather and suds.
I would appreciate if someone could enlighten me.
(Edit) ODO definitions:
- Froth – a mass of small bubbles in liquid caused by agitation, fermentation, or salivating.
- Foam – a mass of small bubbles formed on or in liquid, typically by agitation or fermentation.
- Lather – a frothy white mass of bubbles produced by soap, washing powder, etc. when mixed with water.
- Suds – froth made from soap and water.