Definition

Noun: 1. A synthetic chemical compound used as a dye and antiseptic: Gentian violet is a triphenylmethane dye, appearing as green crystals that dissolve in water to produce a violet-colored solution. It has multiple medical and biological applications, including use as a topical antiseptic, a stain in microscopy, and a treatment for various infections.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor applied gentian violet to the fungal infection on the patient's skin.
  • In the laboratory, gentian violet is a common stain used to prepare slides for viewing under a microscope.
  • Historically, gentian violet was used as a treatment for burns and superficial wounds.

Advanced Usage

• "to stain with gentian violet": In microbiology and histology, this phrase describes the process of using the dye to color cells or tissues to make them visible for study.
  • The protocol requires you to stain the bacterial smear with gentian violet for one minute.

Variants and Related Words

• Crystal violet: This is a synonym for gentian violet, often used interchangeably in scientific contexts, particularly for staining.
• Methyl violet: A related group of dyes; gentian violet is one specific type of methyl violet dye.

Synonyms

• Antiseptic dye: Highlights its dual function.
• Microbiological stain: Emphasizes its use in laboratory science.

Notes on Different Meanings

The term "gentian violet" refers specifically to the chemical compound. It is not related to the gentian flower, despite the name. Its meanings are specialized within medical, scientific, and industrial contexts.

Noun

1. a green crystal (violet in water) used as a dye or stain or bactericide or fungicide or anthelmintic or burn treatment