carbon monoxide

American  

noun

1. a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas, CO, that burns with a pale-blue flame, produced when carbon burns with insufficient air: used chiefly in organic synthesis, metallurgy, and in the preparation of metal carbonyls, as nickel carbonyl.

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carbon monoxide British  

noun

1. a colourless odourless poisonous flammable gas formed when carbon compounds burn in insufficient air and produced by the action of steam on hot carbon: used as a reducing agent in metallurgy and as a fuel. Formula: CO

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Etymology

Origin of carbon monoxide

First recorded in 1870–75

Compare meaning

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

• carbon monoxide vs. carbon dioxide

Example Sentences

The department has warned against using gas stoves, grills and generators indoors, saying power outages can increase the risks of carbon monoxide exposure.

From Los Angeles Times

The department also cautioned people from using gas stoves, grills and generators indoors because power outages can increase the risks of carbon monoxide exposure.

From Los Angeles Times

He wanted to become part of a growing industry aimed at removing carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide from the environment.

From MarketWatch

A Scottish local authority is facing nearly 30 damages claims from families following a carbon monoxide leak at one of its primary schools.

From BBC

However, it is vital to ensure the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow because highly toxic carbon monoxide gas could enter the car.

From BBC