formaldehyde

noun

form·​al·​de·​hyde fȯr-ˈmal-də-ˌhīd 

fər-

: a colorless pungent irritating gas CH₂O used chiefly in aqueous solution as a disinfectant and preservative and in chemical synthesis

Examples of formaldehyde in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The 13 Best Inexpensive Sheet Sets of 2024, Tested by BHG What to Avoid When Shopping for Sheets Stay away from sheets with finishes marketed as wrinkle-free or extra-soft because they're often made with powerful chemicals like formaldehyde. —Bryce Jones, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Sep. 2024

Just remember: stay away from the river, and never trust a mysterious American scientist bearing formaldehyde! —Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 17 Sep. 2024

Oil wells emit likely carcinogens, including benzene and formaldehyde, and living near wells is linked to health problems including respiratory issues and preterm births, according to studies. —Dakota Smith, Los Angeles Times, 12 Sep. 2024

In 2019, the company agreed to pay $33 million in penalties for misleading investors about the formaldehyde. —Jordan Valinsky, CNN, 4 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary form- + aldehyde

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing formaldehyde

• urea-formaldehyde

Kids Definition

formaldehyde

noun

form·​al·​de·​hyde fȯr-ˈmal-də-ˌhīd 

fər-

: a colorless gas that consists of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, has a sharp irritating odor, and when dissolved in water is used to disinfect or to prevent decay

Medical Definition

formaldehyde

noun

form·​al·​de·​hyde fȯr-ˈmal-də-ˌhīd, fər- 

: a colorless pungent irritating gas CH₂O used chiefly as a disinfectant and preservative and in chemical synthesis