benzene

noun

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

Examples of benzene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In a separate part of the study in February, researchers found elevated levels of benzene and styrene in the air even after the smoke appeared to have dissipated. Maggie Astor, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025 Exposure to benzene can occur through inhalation, skin absorption or ingestion. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025 There was a brief period when the smoke from the fire stayed closer to the ground and measurements of dangerous particulate matters – including benzene, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide and xylene – were measured at a high level, the agency said. Chase Hunter, The Mercury News, 12 Feb. 2025 Bottom line While benzoyl peroxide remains an effective acne treatment, its potential to form benzene raises concerns. Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 16 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for benzene

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary benz- + -ene

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of benzene was in 1833

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Benzene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benzene. Accessed 16 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

benzene

noun
ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn How to pronounce benzene (audio)
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 How to pronounce benzene (audio) ben-ˈ How to pronounce benzene (audio)
: 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 adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on benzene

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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