oil of turpentine

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Explanation of "Oil of Turpentine"

Definition: "Oil of turpentine" is a clear, volatile (meaning it evaporates quickly) liquid that comes from the resin of certain pine trees. It is primarily used in two ways: as a paint thinner (to help dissolve paint) and as a solvent (to help mix other substances). It also has medicinal uses.

Usage Instructions:

• As a paint thinner: You can mix oil of turpentine with paint to make it easier to apply. It helps the paint flow better.
• As a solvent: It can dissolve substances, making it useful in cleaning brushes or tools that have been used with oil-based paints.
• Medicinally: In small amounts, it has been used in some traditional remedies, but it should be used with caution and under guidance.

Example Sentence:

• "I added a few drops of oil of turpentine to the paint to make it smoother for my art project."

Advanced Usage:

• In industrial settings, oil of turpentine is often used in the production of varnishes and lacquers. It can also be found in some cleaning products due to its ability to cut through grease.

Word Variants:

• Turpentine: This refers to the raw resin from which oil of turpentine is distilled.
• Turpentine Oil: Another name for oil of turpentine.

Different Meanings:

• In a broader context, "turpentine" can refer to the resin itself, while "oil of turpentine" specifically denotes the distilled liquid form.

Synonyms:

• Turpentine
• Paint thinner
• Solvent

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "oil of turpentine," but you might hear phrases like "thin it out" which means to make a substance less thick (similar to how you would use oil of turpentine with paint).

Safety Note:

It's important to handle oil of turpentine with care. It can be harmful if ingested or if it comes into contact with skin, and it should always be used in a well-ventilated area. Always read the label and follow safety instructions.

Academic

Noun

1. volatile liquid distilled from turpentine oleoresin; used as paint thinner and solvent and medicinally

Synonyms

• turpentine
• spirit of turpentine
• turps