phenol

 
Pronunciation: /ˈfiːnɒl/

noun

[mass noun] Chemistry
  • a mildly acidic toxic white crystalline solid obtained from coal tar and used in chemical manufacture, and in dilute form (under the name carbolic) as a disinfectant.
    • Chemical formula: C6H5OH
  • [count noun] any compound with a hydroxyl group linked directly to a benzene ring: many of these molecules are phenols

Derivatives

phenolic

Pronunciation: /fɪˈnɒlɪk/
adjective

Origin:

mid 19th century: from French phénole, based on phène 'benzene'