tetrachloroethane

noun

tet·​ra·​chlo·​ro·​ethane

"+

variants or less commonly tetrachlorethane

¦⸗⸗ˌklōr+

: either of two isomeric heavy liquid compounds C₂H₂Cl₄

especially : the symmetrical isomer CHCl₂CHCl₂ that forms toxic vapors with an odor similar to that of chloroform, that is made from acetylene and chlorine, and that is used chiefly as a nonflammable solvent of medium volatility and in making trichloroethylene and tetrachloroethylene

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary tetrachlor- + ethane

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now