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methylene chloride
noun
: a toxic nonflammable liquid CH2Cl2 used especially as a solvent, paint remover, and aerosol propellant
Examples of methylene chloride in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Ethyl acetate and methylene chloride are two common solvents used to extract caffeine from green coffee beans.
—Michael W. Crowder, Discover Magazine, 30 July 2024
The caffeine dissolves better in methylene chloride than in water, so most of the caffeine stays up in the methylene chloride layer, which producers can separate from the water.
—Michael W. Crowder, Discover Magazine, 30 July 2024
The chemical, methylene chloride, has been linked to cancer in humans and animals.
—Sarah Garone, Health, 25 June 2024
Beyond this, methylene chloride is most widely used as an industrial solvent and paint stripper.
—Sarah Garone, Health, 25 June 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1880, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of methylene chloride was
in 1880
Dictionary Entries Near methylene chloride
Cite this Entry
“Methylene chloride.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/methylene%20chloride. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024.
Medical Definition
methylene chloride
noun
: a nonflammable liquid CH2Cl2 formerly used as an inhalation anesthetic but now used especially as a solvent, paint remover, and aerosol propellant
called also dichloromethane
More from Merriam-Webster on methylene chloride
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about methylene chloride
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