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

Adhesives contain formaldehyde, mills consume energy and produce waste wood, and trucks spew diesel fumes, so even the purest forms of construction inflict environmental cost. —Justin Davidson, Curbed, 8 Jan. 2025

However, the actual rule to regulate formaldehyde will be up to the incoming Trump administration. —Rachel Frazin, The Hill, 3 Jan. 2025

Some of the chemicals in e-cigarettes — including acetaldehyde, acrolein and formaldehyde — can cause lung and heart disease. —Mathew Rodriguez, Them, 3 Dec. 2024

Another thing to look for is the Greenguard Gold certification and UL Environment's Formaldehyde Free label, which both certify that there are no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or formaldehyde in your mattress. —Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 2 Nov. 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