quaternary ammonium compound

noun

Definition of quaternary ammonium compound

: any of numerous strong bases and their salts derived from ammonium by replacement of the hydrogen atoms with organic radicals and important especially as surface-active agents, disinfectants, and drugs

First Known Use of quaternary ammonium compound

circa 1934

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

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Medical Dictionary

quaternary ammonium compound

noun

medical Definition of quaternary ammonium compound

: any of numerous strong bases and their salts derived from ammonium by replacement of the hydrogen atoms with organic radicals and important especially as surface-active agents, disinfectants, and drugs — called also quat, quaternary