Abel test

noun

ˈābəl-

1

: a test for determining the flash point of a volatile oil by use of a closed cup in which the oil is heated over a fixed flame and by use of a small movable flame that passes at regular intervals of temperature over the surface of the oil

2

: a test for the stability of smokeless powder and similar explosives in which a ground sample is heated in a test tube with potassium iodide-starch paper, the time required for discoloring the paper being the measure of the stability

Word History

Etymology

after Frederick Abel

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!