sulfur dioxide

noun

: a heavy pungent toxic gas SO₂ that is easily condensed to a colorless liquid, is used especially in making sulfuric acid, in bleaching, as a preservative, and as a refrigerant, and is a major air pollutant especially in industrial areas

Examples of sulfur dioxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Unmasked, these miners breathe in carcinogenic sulfur dioxide that can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues. —Maya Silver, Outside, 20 Jan. 2026

The Times also cited similar language to what the EPA emails mentioned in a regulatory impact analysis posted on Monday concerning limits on nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide from combustion turbines at gas-burning power plants. —Andrea Thompson, Scientific American, 14 Jan. 2026

In a fire, molten sulfur may release toxic gases, such as hydrogen sulfide or sulfur dioxide. —Leo Bertucci, Louisville Courier Journal, 30 Dec. 2025

Molten sulfur can cause severe thermal burns and release irritating gases such as sulfur dioxide or hydrogen sulfide if disturbed, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. —Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 30 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sulfur dioxide

• acetamide
• acetonide
• acidified
• antimonide
• beatified
• benzaldehyde
• borohydride
• chalcogenide
• commodified
• decalcified
• declassified
• disaccharide

Kids Definition

sulfur dioxide

noun

: a heavy strong-smelling gas that is used especially in making sulfuric acid, in bleaching, in preserving things, and as a refrigerant and that is a major substance in air pollution especially in industrial areas

Medical Definition

sulfur dioxide

noun

: a heavy pungent toxic gas SO₂ that is easily condensed to a colorless liquid, is used especially in making sulfuric acid, in bleaching, as a preservative, and as a refrigerant, and is a major air pollutant especially in industrial areas