methylated spirit
Definition
Noun: * A form of ethanol (ethyl alcohol) that has been made unfit for human consumption by the addition of substances like methanol (methyl alcohol) and often a purple dye. It is primarily used as a fuel, solvent, or cleaning agent.
Usage
"Methylated spirit" is a non-count noun. It refers to the liquid substance as a whole, not to individual units. It is commonly used in contexts related to cleaning, DIY projects, laboratory work, and camping.
Examples
- Cleaning: "Use a cloth dampened with methylated spirit to remove the sticky residue from the glass."
- Fuel: "The portable stove runs on methylated spirit, which is easy to carry and burns cleanly."
- Solvent: "The artist used methylated spirit to thin the shellac before applying it to the wood."
- Warning: "Methylated spirit is poisonous and should never be ingested."
Advanced Usage
- The term is often shortened informally to "meths" in some regions (e.g., "Fill the burner with meths").
- In chemistry and industry, it may be referred to more formally as "denatured alcohol," though the specific denaturing formula can vary.
Variants and Related Words
- Denatured alcohol (n): A more general technical term for ethanol that has been made poisonous or unpalatable.
- Surgical spirit (n): A similar preparation, often containing other additives, used primarily for disinfecting skin and medical instruments.
- Methanol (n): Also called "wood alcohol," this is the primary toxic additive in methylated spirits.
Synonyms
- Denatured ethanol
- Methylated spirits (plural form, identical meaning)
Important Notes
- Not a Beverage: It is critical to understand that methylated spirit is highly toxic if consumed due to the added methanol, which can cause blindness or death.
- Regional Variation: The specific composition and common name (e.g., "methylated spirits," "denatured alcohol") can vary by country.
Noun
-
ethyl alcohol denatured with methyl alcohol to prevent its use as an alcoholic beverage
