benzophenone

American  

[ben-zoh-fi-nohn, -fee-nohn] / ˌbɛn zoʊ fɪˈnoʊn, -ˈfi noʊn /

noun

Chemistry.

1. a crystalline, water-insoluble ketone, C 13 H 10 O, used in organic synthesis.

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benzophenone British  

/ ˌbɛnzəʊfɪˈnəʊn /

noun

1. Also called: diphenylketone.  a white sweet-smelling crystalline solid used mainly in the manufacture of organic compounds and in perfume. Formula: C 6 H 5 COC 6 H 5

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benzophenone Scientific  

/ bĕn′zō-fĭ-nōn′,-fē′nōn /

1. A white crystalline compound used in perfumes to prevent evaporation and in the manufacture of insecticides. Benzophenone is a ketone. Chemical formula: C ₁₃ H ₁₀ O.

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Etymology

Origin of benzophenone

First recorded in 1880–85; benzo- + phen(o)- + -one

Example Sentences

In 2018, for instance, the FDA withdrew authorization for certain synthetic flavors—including benzophenone, ethyl acrylate, and eugenyl methyl ether—used to mimic flavors like mint, cinnamon and citrus in processed foods.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2025

Drug companies are now investigating lotions made with benzophenone compounds.

From Time Magazine Archive

So Dr. Knox suggested that redheads and others with exceptionally fair skins who do not want to freckle use a shutout benzophenone preparation.

From Time Magazine Archive