benzene

noun

ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn  ben-ˈzēn 

: a colorless volatile flammable toxic liquid aromatic hydrocarbon C₆H₆ used in organic synthesis, as a solvent, and as a motor fuel

benzenoid

ˈben-zə-ˌnȯid 

adjective or noun

Examples of benzene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

All of those situations typically cause the plant to release high levels of air toxins such as sulfur dioxide and benzene. —Noelle Phillips, The Denver Post, 12 Dec. 2024

Even as scientists have shown that gas stoves can spew nitrogen dioxide, benzene and other potentially deadly pollutants, there’s been little progress toward getting them out of homes. —Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 21 Nov. 2024

When inhaled, benzene can also be a respiratory irritant. —Kristen Rogers, CNN, 29 Nov. 2024

Exposure to benzene has been linked to a higher risk of certain cancers, including leukemia and blood cancers. —Elizabeth Yuko, Health, 17 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary benz- + -ene

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing benzene

• benzene hexachloride
• benzene ring

Kids Definition

benzene

noun

ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn 

ben-ˈzēn

: a colorless flammable liquid that evaporates easily and is used to make or dissolve other chemicals or as a motor fuel

Medical Definition

benzene

noun

ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn  ben-ˈ 

: a colorless volatile flammable toxic liquid aromatic hydrocarbon C₆H₆ used in organic synthesis, as a solvent, and as a motor fuel

called also benzol

benzenoid

ˈben-zə-ˌnȯid 

adjective