indole

noun

in·dole | \ ˈin-ˌdōl

Definition of indole

: a crystalline alkaloid compound C₈H₇N that is a decomposition product of proteins containing tryptophan, that can be made synthetically, and that is used in perfumes also : a derivative of indole

Examples of indole in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This is in part the work of indole, an aromatic compound present in foul-smelling substances like coal tar and feces, which in trace amounts gives the most delicate of flowers an almost animal opulence. — New York Times, 11 Oct. 2021 In fact, the flower produces dimethyl trisulfide (also found in Limburger cheese and cabbage), trimethylamine (normally released by rotting fish and animals), isovaleric acid (a major component of foot odor) and indole (found in human feces). — Karl J. P. Smith, Scientific American, 29 July 2016 Like jasmine and gardenia, the flower’s aroma has an under-funk of indole, a molecule that’s also present in (sorry) feces. — April Long, Town & Country, 13 Sep. 2019

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

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Dictionary Entries Near indole

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indole

indoleacetic acid

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Cite this Entry

“Indole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indole. Accessed 17 May. 2022.

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More Definitions for indole

indole

noun

in·dole | \ ˈin-ˌdōl

Medical Definition of indole

: a crystalline compound C₈H₇N that is found along with skatole in the intestines and feces as a decomposition product of proteins containing tryptophan and that can be made synthetically also : a derivative of indole