Definition

Noun: * A volatile, flammable liquid: Specifically, a clear, colorless liquid obtained through the distillation of crude turpentine (the oleoresin from pine trees). It is primarily composed of pinene and other terpenes. Its main traditional uses are as a solvent for thinning oil-based paints and varnishes, and as a medicinal substance, though its medicinal use is now largely historical.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The artist thinned the oil paint with spirit of turpentine to achieve a smoother consistency.
  • In older pharmacopeias, spirit of turpentine was listed as a topical rubefacient.
  • Always ensure proper ventilation when using spirit of turpentine due to its strong odor and flammability.

Advanced Usage

• The term "spirit of" in historical and technical contexts often denotes a volatile substance or essential oil obtained by distillation (e.g., for ethanol). Therefore, explicitly refers to the distilled, volatile fraction, distinguishing it from the raw, viscous oleoresin (crude turpentine) or the solid rosin left after distillation.

Variants and Related Words

• Turpentine (noun): In modern common usage, "turpentine" is often used synonymously with , referring to the distilled solvent. However, technically, "turpentine" can also refer more broadly to the oleoresin itself.
• Gum turpentine (noun): Another term for the raw oleoresin before distillation.
• Wood turpentine (noun): Turpentine obtained by distilling pine wood, as opposed to the oleoresin.
• Turps (noun, informal): A common abbreviation for turpentine, especially among artists and tradespeople.
• Mineral spirits (noun): A petroleum-derived solvent with similar uses to turpentine but a different chemical composition; often used as a modern substitute.

Synonyms

• Turpentine (in its common modern sense)
• Oil of turpentine
• Gum spirit
• Distilled turpentine

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning of is the specific distilled product used as an industrial and artistic solvent.
• Its medicinal use, once common for ailments like chest congestion or as a topical antiseptic, is archaic and not recommended due to potential toxicity.
• It should not be confused with "turpentine oil" in some alternative health contexts, which may refer to different, sometimes unsafe, products.

Noun

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