acetone

American  

[as-i-tohn] / ˈæs ɪˌtoʊn /

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.

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acetone British  

/ ˈæsɪˌtəʊn /

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

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acetone Scientific  

/ ăs′ĭ-tōn′ /

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.

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Other Word Forms

• acetonic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of acetone

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

Compare meaning

How does acetone compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• denatured alcohol vs. acetone

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

acetone

In the laboratory study, researchers dissolved the chemical in acetone and applied it to pieces of wood.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 19, 2026

The acetone, which is used when releasing silver iodide particles from the ground, converts into water and carbon dioxide, a spokesperson for the agency said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 24, 2024

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

From Seattle Times ● Jan. 6, 2024

And there are hints too of chemical species with multiple carbon atoms, such as acetone, ethanol, and acetaldehyde.

From BBC ● Jan. 24, 2023

Another British experimenter who applied DDT in acetone solution to his skin reported heaviness and aching of limbs, muscular weakness, and “spasms of extreme nervous tension.”

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson