ethylene glycol

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. glycol.

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ethylene glycol British  

noun

1. another name for ethanediol

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ethylene glycol Scientific  

/ glī′kôl′ /

1. A poisonous, syrupy, colorless alcohol used as an antifreeze in heating and cooling systems that use water. Ethylene glycol is chemically like ethanol but has two hydroxyl (OH) groups instead of one. Also called glycol. Chemical formula: C ₂ H ₆ O ₂ .

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Etymology

Origin of ethylene glycol

First recorded in 1900–05

Compare meaning

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

• polyethylene glycol vs. ethylene glycol

Example Sentences

Fomepizole works by blocking enzymes known as alcohol dehydrogenase, stopping the body from converting ethylene glycol and methanol into toxic byproducts.

From Science Daily • Jan. 18, 2026

It’s not to be confused with ethylene glycol, which is used in antifreeze.

From Scientific American • Sep. 15, 2023

The World Health Organization said last year that the India-made cough syrups contained lethal toxins ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol – commonly used in car brake fluid and other products not fit for human consumption.

From Reuters • Jul. 21, 2023

The WHO said that the tested samples of Guaifenesin TG syrup, made by Punjab-based QP Pharmachem Ltd, showed "unacceptable amounts of diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol".

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2023

They include ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, trimethylene glycol, mannitol, sorbitol, dextrans, and seminal-plasma proteins.

From Preservation of Bull Semen at Sub-Zero Temperatures by Friedman, M. E.