hydrogen sulfide

noun

: a flammable poisonous gas H2S that has an odor suggestive of rotten eggs and is found especially in many mineral waters and in putrefying matter

Examples of hydrogen sulfide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
High levels of hydrogen sulfide have been shown to be in the air around these schools, especially during morning drop-off. Tom Csanidi, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Apr. 2025 Common illnesses for those who live, work or go to school in close proximity to the Tijuana River include respiratory illness from breathing toxic fumes of hydrogen sulfide, gastrointestinal illness (diarrhea), skin infections, conjunctivitis and headaches, just to name a few. Kimberly Dickson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Apr. 2025 Similarly, in 1975 chemists were able to produce DMS in the lab using hydrogen sulfide, methane and electricity, proving that life isn't necessary for its creation. Perri Thaler, Space.com, 11 Mar. 2025 Despite earlier mitigation steps—including a $500,000 carbon biofilter added to the wastewater plant in 2022 and hydrogen sulfide neutralization technology deployed in 2023—the odor has persisted. John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hydrogen sulfide

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hydrogen sulfide was in 1869

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Cite this Entry

“Hydrogen sulfide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hydrogen%20sulfide. Accessed 14 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

hydrogen sulfide

noun
: a flammable poisonous gas with a disagreeable odor suggestive of rotten eggs

Medical Definition

hydrogen sulfide

noun
: a flammable poisonous gas H2S that has an odor suggestive of rotten eggs and is found especially in many mineral waters and in putrefying matter
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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