aldehyde

noun

al·​de·​hyde ˈal-də-ˌhīd How to pronounce aldehyde (audio)
: acetaldehyde
broadly : any of a class of highly reactive organic compounds that are analogous to acetaldehyde and characterized by a carbonyl group attached to a hydrogen atom
aldehydic adjective

Examples of aldehyde in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Its head notes contain aldehydes, chemicals that can make a scent smell effervescent and clean, like fresh laundry, or new frost, or sunlight—maybe even the kind that streams in through stained glass. Jocelyn Silver, Vogue, 18 Sep. 2024 An enzyme called aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is responsible for breaking down acetaldehyde. John Loeppky, Verywell Health, 14 Aug. 2024 Top notes of aldehydes (for the vodka effect) are grounded by cardamom and oakmoss, creating a refreshing spritzer that captures the cold steam essence of ice cubes and a splash of vodka. Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 13 Aug. 2024 By doing so, enzymes are released which break down the aldehydes that are pungent to some consumers. Marina Johnson, The Indianapolis Star, 16 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for aldehyde 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'aldehyde.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

German Aldehyd, from New Latin al. dehyd., abbreviation of alcohol dehydrogenatum dehydrogenated alcohol

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of aldehyde was in 1833

Dictionary Entries Near aldehyde

Cite this Entry

“Aldehyde.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aldehyde. Accessed 13 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

aldehyde

noun
al·​de·​hyde ˈal-də-ˌhīd How to pronounce aldehyde (audio)
: acetaldehyde
broadly : any of various highly reactive compounds typified by acetaldehyde and characterized by the group CHO
aldehydic adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!