pyridine

noun

pyr·​i·​dine ˈpir-ə-ˌdēn 

: a toxic water-soluble flammable liquid base C₅H₅N of pungent odor that is the parent of many naturally occurring organic compounds and is used as a solvent and as a denaturant for alcohol and in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and waterproofing agents

Word History

Etymology

pyr- + -ide + -ine entry 2

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

pyridine

noun

pyr·​i·​dine ˈpir-ə-ˌdēn 

: a toxic water-soluble flammable liquid base C₅H₅N of pungent odor that is the parent of many naturally occurring organic compounds and is used as a solvent and a denaturant for alcohol and in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals (as antiseptics and antihistamines) and waterproofing agents