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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
Compliance does not mean the item is formaldehyde free.
—Topher Sanders, ProPublica, 9 Dec. 2024
Damien Hirst’s shark in formaldehyde and Banksy’s self-shredding painting both tested the boundaries of art and spectacle.
—Natalie Stoclet, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
However, methanol becomes formaldehyde—a cancer-causing chemical used in industrial glues and embalming corpses—and formate, or formic acid, which is a strong and toxic acid.
—Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024
Everything from polyurethane foams with formaldehyde and TCEP (a flame retardant) to phthalates can end up in nonorganic mattresses, off-gassing into your home.
—Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 2 Nov. 2024
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Word History
Etymology
International Scientific Vocabulary form- + aldehyde
First Known Use
1872, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing formaldehyde
Dictionary Entries Near formaldehyde
Cite this Entry
“Formaldehyde.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formaldehyde. Accessed 5 Jan. 2025.
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
More from Merriam-Webster on formaldehyde
Nglish: Translation of formaldehyde for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about formaldehyde
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