acetone

[as-i-tohn]

noun

Chemistry.

1. a colorless, volatile, water-soluble, flammable liquid, C 3 H 6 O, usually derived by oxidation of isopropyl alcohol or by bacterial fermentation of carbohydrates: used chiefly in paints and varnishes, as a general solvent, and in organic synthesis.

acetone

/ ˈæsɪˌtəʊn, ˌæsɪˈtɒnɪk /

noun

1. Systematic name: propanone. a colourless volatile flammable pungent liquid, miscible with water, used in the manufacture of chemicals and as a solvent and thinner for paints, varnishes, and lacquers. Formula: CH 3 COCH 3

acetone

1. A colorless, volatile, extremely flammable liquid ketone that is widely used as a solvent, for example in nail-polish remover. Chemical formula: C ₃ H ₆ O.

Other Word Forms

• acetonic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of acetone¹

First recorded in 1830–40; acet- + -one

Word History and Origins

Origin of acetone¹

C19: from German Azeton, from _aceto- + _-one

Example Sentences

These included including pipes, acetone and copper wire consistent with that found on the devices used in the two bombings.

Read more on BBC

He is trained to identify the presence of up to 10 flammable liquids, such as acetone and petrol, and has recently been working in the community on fire safety and prevention.

Read more on BBC

The video claims that the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority “boasts about blasting cancer-linked silver iodide mixed with acetone.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

I use acetone to remove the finish, and I can see how much plastic makeup has been applied to the leather.

Read more on Seattle Times

The EPA said at the time that the plant generated hazardous waste including toluene, methylene chloride, acetone and methanol.

Read more on Seattle Times