chemical

[kem-i-kuhl]

noun

1. a substance produced by or used in a chemical process.

2. Slang.,  chemicals, narcotic or mind-altering drugs or substances.

adjective

1. of, used in, produced by, or concerned with chemistry or chemicals.

   a chemical formula; chemical agents.

2. used in chemical warfare.

   chemical weapons.

chemical

/ ˈkɛmɪkəl /

noun

1. any substance used in or resulting from a reaction involving changes to atoms or molecules, especially one derived artificially for practical use

adjective

1. of or used in chemistry

   chemical balance

2. of, made from, or using chemicals

   chemical fertilizer

chemical

1. Relating to or produced by means of chemistry.

1. A substance having a specific molecular composition, obtained by or used in a chemical process.

Other Word Forms

• chemically adverb
• nonchemical adjective
• prechemical adjective
• pseudochemical adjective
• semichemical adjective
• semichemically adverb
• superchemical adjective
• superchemically adverb
• unchemical adjective
• unchemically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of chemical¹

1570–80; chemic + -al ¹; replacing chimical chemic

Example Sentences

Social interactions prompt the brain to release “rewarding chemicals,” which is why engaging with others feels intrinsically pleasurable rather than burdensome.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The neurochemicals involved in this process are different than those mediating habit formation and include a chemical messenger called noradrenaline and internally produced opioids such as endorphins.

Read more on Salon

When we laugh or cry, especially in community, our bodies can release dopamine, serotonin and other chemicals that support empathy, communication and a sense of hope for the future.

Read more on Salon

"These findings may help design efficient artificial photosynthetic systems capable of converting solar energy into chemical fuels, contributing to innovative and sustainable renewable energy solutions."

Read more on Science Daily

Those residual ingredients included potassium, rare earth elements, and phosphorus -- collectively known as "KREEP," with the "K" representing potassium's chemical symbol.

Read more on Science Daily

Related Words

• synthetic