cresol

American  

[kree-sawl, -sol] / ˈkri sɔl, -sɒl /

noun

1. any of three isomeric compounds having the formula C 7 H 8 O, usually derived from coal tar and wood tar, and used chiefly as a disinfectant.

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cresol British  

/ ˈkriːsɒl /

noun

1. Also called: cresylic acid.  Systematic name: methylphenol.  an aromatic compound derived from phenol, existing in three isomeric forms: found in coal tar and creosote and used in making synthetic resins and as an antiseptic and disinfectant; hydroxytoluene. Formula: C 6 H 4 (CH 3 )OH

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Etymology

Origin of cresol

1860–65; cres- (irregular from creosote ) + -ol ²

Example Sentences

By treating fibers with several chemicals, including cresol, alcohol, benzol and hydrochloric acid, he converts them into a resinous plastic.

From Time Magazine Archive

After a pause of a few beats he says, “It’s caused by a cresol compound used by a manufacturer.”

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

Appliances used at Operation.—Instruments that are not damaged by heat must be boiled in a fish-kettle or other suitable steriliser for fifteen minutes in a 1 per cent. solution of cresol or washing soda.

From Manual of Surgery Volume First: General Surgery. Sixth Edition. by Thomson, Alexis

Then compound cresol, 1 ounce to 2 quarts of sweet oil, or the benzoated oxid of zinc ointment, giving the affected surfaces a thorough application once a day, will be efficacious.

From Special Report on Diseases of Cattle by United States. Bureau of Animal Industry

The ulcers should be scraped or curetted and cauterized with lunar caustic, and the mouth washed daily with a two per cent water solution of a cresol disinfectant.

From Common Diseases of Farm Animals by Craig, R. A., D. V. M.