naphthol

noun

naph·​thol ˈnaf-ˌthȯl How to pronounce naphthol (audio) -ˌthōl How to pronounce naphthol (audio)
 nonstandard  ˈnap-
1
: either of two isomeric derivatives C10H8O of naphthalene used as antiseptics and in the manufacture of dyes
2
: any of various hydroxy derivatives of naphthalene that resemble the simpler phenols

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of naphthol was in 1842

Dictionary Entries Near naphthol

Cite this Entry

“Naphthol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naphthol. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

naphthol

noun
naph·​thol ˈnaf-ˌthȯl How to pronounce naphthol (audio) ˈnap- How to pronounce naphthol (audio)
-ˌthōl
: either of two isomeric derivatives C10H8O of naphthalene found in coal tar or made synthetically:
a
: one used chiefly in synthesizing dyes

called also alpha-naphthol

b
: one used chiefly as an intermediate (as for dyes and pharmaceuticals) and especially formerly in medicine as an antiseptic and parasiticide

called also beta-naphthol

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