benzene

noun

ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn How to pronounce benzene (audio)
ben-ˈ
: a colorless volatile flammable toxic liquid aromatic hydrocarbon C6H6 used in organic synthesis, as a solvent, and as a motor fuel
benzenoid adjective or noun

Examples of benzene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Water testing in California communities affected by wildfires in 2017 and 2018 found that water systems had been contaminated with volatile organic compounds such as benzene, a carcinogen. Laodong Guo, The Conversation, 25 June 2024 Hazardous gasses and chemicals in the smoke like carbon monoxide and benzene can also endanger people’s health. Li Zhou, Vox, 14 May 2024 In addition to these two chemicals, the EPA's new regulations will target a number of additional airborne pollutants, including benzene, 1,3-butadiene, ethylene dichloride, and vinyl chloride, all of which have similar entries at the NCI. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 9 Apr. 2024 Hydrocarbon and benzene fumes have polluted the air. Hilary Matfess, Foreign Affairs, 23 May 2016 See all Example Sentences for benzene 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'benzene.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary benz- + -ene

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of benzene was in 1833

Dictionary Entries Near benzene

Cite this Entry

“Benzene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benzene. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

benzene

noun
ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn How to pronounce benzene (audio)
ben-ˈzēn
: a colorless flammable liquid that evaporates easily and is used to make or dissolve other chemicals or as a motor fuel

Medical Definition

benzene

noun
ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn How to pronounce benzene (audio) ben-ˈ How to pronounce benzene (audio)
: a colorless volatile flammable toxic liquid aromatic hydrocarbon C6H6 used in organic synthesis, as a solvent, and as a motor fuel

called also benzol

benzenoid adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on benzene

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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