SINCE 1828

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alkane

noun al·kane \ ˈal-ˌkān \

Definition of alkane

: any of numerous saturated hydrocarbons; specifically : any of a series of open-chain hydrocarbons C_nH_2n₊₂ (such as methane and butane) — called also paraffin

See alkane defined for kids

Recent Examples of alkane from the Web

The product, which purports to help give skin a healthy, dewy look, is made with skin-loving ingredients like coconut alkanes, coconut milk, coconut water and coconut polysaccharides.

— courtney ortega, star-telegram.com, "Could this tropical fruit be the secret to helping makeup survive the summer?," 5 May 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'alkane.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of alkane

alkyl + -ane

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1899

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

alkane

noun al·kane \ ˈal-ˌkān \

medical Definition of alkane

: any of a series of saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons C_nH₂_n₊₂ (as methane) — called also paraffin

Learn More about alkane

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about alkane

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