naphtha

noun

naph·​tha ˈnaf-thə 

nonstandard

ˈnap- 

1

: any of various volatile often flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixtures used chiefly as solvents and diluents

2

: petroleum

Examples of naphtha in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The region’s supplies of naphtha and LPG, both used for petrochemicals, have been particularly hit, according to Goldman Sachs. —Grant Smith, Fortune, 9 May 2026

South Korea last year imported more than 60% of its crude and 50% of its naphtha, a key petrochemical feedstock used in plastics manufacturing, through the Strait of Hormuz. —ABC News, 7 May 2026

At the same time, higher oil and gas prices and tighter naphtha supply are pushing up costs for components including interiors, coatings and tires. —CNBC, 4 May 2026

For example, 41% of Asia’s naphtha comes from the Middle East, Gildea noted. —David Goldman, CNN Money, 21 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek, of Iranian origin; akin to Persian neft naphtha

First Known Use

1543, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

naphtha

noun

naph·​tha ˈnaf-thə  ˈnap- 

: any of various often flammable liquids prepared from coal or petroleum and used especially to dissolve substances

Medical Definition

naphtha

noun

naph·​tha ˈnaf-thə  ˈnap- 

: any of various volatile often flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixtures used chiefly as solvents and diluents