benzene

noun

ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn  ben-ˈzēn 

: a colorless volatile flammable toxic liquid aromatic hydrocarbon C₆H₆ used in organic synthesis, as a solvent, and as a motor fuel

benzenoid

ˈben-zə-ˌnȯid 

adjective or noun

Examples of benzene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In Lower Manhattan, the collapse of the Twin Towers led to a massive dust cloud that filled the air and blanketed city blocks with ash, debris, metal, glass, asbestos, benzene and other harmful particles, according to the WTC Health program. — ABC News, 11 Sep. 2026

Laboratory testing confirms the blends meet regulatory standards, deliver superior anti-knock and anti-detonation performance, and maintain high oxidation stability, along with low sulfur and benzene levels. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 2 Sep. 2026

Active and abandoned oil and gas wells can spread carcinogens such as benzene, volatile organic compounds and radioactive material into surrounding soil, water and air. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026

Most of the short-term health risks come from benzene evaporating from the refinery's wastewater treatment system, the report said. — Carlos E. Castañeda, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary benz- + -ene

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing benzene

• benzene hexachloride
• benzene ring

Rhymes for benzene

• agin
• alkene
• allene
• ameen
• amin
• arene
• athene
• baleen
• beeline
• between
• bromine
• butene

Kids Definition

benzene

noun

ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn 

ben-ˈzēn

: a colorless flammable liquid that evaporates easily and is used to make or dissolve other chemicals or as a motor fuel

Medical Definition

benzene

noun

ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn  ben-ˈ 

: a colorless volatile flammable toxic liquid aromatic hydrocarbon C₆H₆ used in organic synthesis, as a solvent, and as a motor fuel

called also benzol

benzenoid

ˈben-zə-ˌnȯid 

adjective