Definition of benzene
: a colorless volatile flammable toxic liquid aromatic hydrocarbon C6H6 used in organic synthesis, as a solvent, and as a motor fuel
Explore Merriam-Webster
Recent Examples of benzene from the Web
-
Benzene is a naturally occurring carcinogen that makes up one percent of gasoline, and according to the EPA would only cost one-thousandth of a cent per gallon to remove.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'benzene'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of benzene
International Scientific Vocabulary benz- + -ene
First Known Use: 1833
BENZENE Defined for English Language Learners
benzene
playDefinition of benzene for English Language Learners
-
: a liquid chemical that is used to make plastics, fuel for automobiles, and other substances
Medical Dictionary
Learn More about benzene
-
See words that rhyme with benzene Spanish Central: Translation of benzene Nglish: Translation of benzene for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about benzene
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up benzene? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!