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

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

The research presented formaldehyde as relatively innocuous. —Sharon Lerner and Al Shaw, CNN, 5 Dec. 2024

The smart device senses and captures allergens and particles while destroying formaldehyde—all without making a peep. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 2 Dec. 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