anisole

noun

an·​is·​ole

ˈanəˌsōl

plural -s

: a colorless liquid ether C₆H₅OCH₃ of pleasant odor obtained by distilling anisic acid or by the action of dimethyl sulfate and alkali on phenol and used chiefly in perfumery; methyl phenyl ether

Word History

Etymology

French anisol, from anis- aniso- entry 2 + -ol -ole

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

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