Definition

Noun: A toxic, white, soluble, crystalline acidic derivative of benzene. It is used in manufacturing and as a disinfectant and antiseptic. It is poisonous if taken internally.

Usage

This is a technical/scientific term used primarily in chemistry, manufacturing, and industrial contexts to refer to a specific chemical compound. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation.

Examples

• The laboratory protocol required the careful handling of hydroxybenzene.
• Hydroxybenzene is an important starting material in the synthesis of many plastics and pharmaceuticals.
• Due to its toxicity, safety data sheets for hydroxybenzene must be strictly followed.

Advanced Usage

• In organic chemistry nomenclature, "hydroxybenzene" systematically describes a benzene ring with a hydroxyl (-OH) group attached.

Variants and Related Words

• Phenol: This is the most common synonym and the name by which this compound is most widely known.
• Carbolic acid: An older, traditional name for this compound, especially in medical or disinfectant contexts.

Synonyms

• Phenol
• Carbolic acid
• Benzenol (systematic IUPAC name)

Notes on Meaning

This word has a single, specific chemical meaning. It does not have different figurative or colloquial meanings.

Noun

1. a toxic white soluble crystalline acidic derivative of benzene; used in manufacturing and as a disinfectant and antiseptic; poisonous if taken internally