turps
/tə:ps/
Definition
Noun (uncountable, informal, chiefly British, Australian, New Zealand): 1. A solvent and paint thinner: A common, informal term for the volatile, pungent liquid distilled from pine resin (turpentine), used primarily to thin oil-based paints and clean paintbrushes. 2. A medicinal substance: Historically used as a topical liniment or internal remedy, though this usage is now rare and not recommended.
Usage and Examples
- As a paint solvent/thinner:
- "I need some turps to clean my brushes after using oil paint."
- "Thin the enamel with a little turps before you apply it."
- Informal reference:
- "The strong smell of turps filled the art studio."
Advanced Usage Notes
- Regional Usage: The term "turps" is predominantly used in British, Australian, and New Zealand English. In American English, "turpentine" or the abbreviation "mineral spirits" (for a similar petroleum-based product) is more common.
- Style: It is an informal, clipped form of "turpentine." Using the full word "turpentine" is more appropriate in formal or technical writing.
Variants and Related Words
- Turpentine (n.): The full, formal name for the substance.
- Gum turpentine (n.): Specifically refers to turpentine distilled from the oleoresin of living pine trees.
- Wood turpentine (n.): Turpentine distilled from pine wood or stumps.
- Mineral turps (n., informal): A common term, especially in Australia, for white spirit or mineral spirits, a petroleum-derived substitute for genuine turpentine.
Synonyms
- Turpentine (formal synonym)
- Spirit of turpentine (archaic/technical)
- Paint thinner (general category)
- Solvent (general category)
Important Cautions
- Flammability: Turps is highly flammable. Keep away from open flames and heat sources.
- Toxicity: Fumes are harmful if inhaled in concentrated amounts. Use in a well-ventilated area.
- Ingestion: It is poisonous if swallowed. The historical medicinal use is obsolete and dangerous.
Noun
-
volatile liquid distilled from turpentine oleoresin; used as paint thinner and solvent and medicinally
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
