formaldehyde

noun

form·​al·​de·​hyde fȯr-ˈmal-də-ˌhīd 

fər-

: a colorless pungent irritating gas CH₂O used chiefly in aqueous solution as a disinfectant and preservative and in chemical synthesis

Examples of formaldehyde in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The research presented formaldehyde as relatively innocuous. —Sharon Lerner and Al Shaw, CNN, 5 Dec. 2024

The smart device senses and captures allergens and particles while destroying formaldehyde—all without making a peep. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 2 Dec. 2024

All products in the toolbox are free from formaldehyde and butanone oxime. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 20 Nov. 2024

Another plus: The foam is CertiPUR-US Certified, which means it’s made without harmful chemicals like formaldehyde or heavy metals like mercury and lead. —Claudia Fisher, SELF, 3 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary form- + aldehyde

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing formaldehyde

• urea-formaldehyde

Kids Definition

formaldehyde

noun

form·​al·​de·​hyde fȯr-ˈmal-də-ˌhīd 

fər-

: a colorless gas that consists of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, has a sharp irritating odor, and when dissolved in water is used to disinfect or to prevent decay

Medical Definition

formaldehyde

noun

form·​al·​de·​hyde fȯr-ˈmal-də-ˌhīd, fər- 

: a colorless pungent irritating gas CH₂O used chiefly as a disinfectant and preservative and in chemical synthesis