definitions

isopropyl alcohol

noun Chemistry.

a colorless, flammable, water-soluble liquid, C3H8O, produced from propylene by the action of sulfuric acid and hydrolysis: used chiefly in the manufacture of antifreeze and rubbing alcohol and as a solvent.

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Nearby words

isoprecipitin, isoprene, isoprenoid, isopropanol, isopropyl, isopropyl alcohol, isopropyl ether, isopropyl group, isopropylbenzene, isopropylideneacetone, isoproterenol

Origin of isopropyl alcohol

First recorded in 1870–75
Also called dimethylcarbinol, isopropanol, secondary propyl alcohol.
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Medicine definitions for isopropyl alcohol

isopropyl alcohol

[ ī′sə-prō′pəl ]

n.

A clear, colorless, flammable, mobile liquid used in antifreeze compounds, in lotions and cosmetics, and as a solvent for gums, shellac, and essential oils.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.

Science definitions for isopropyl alcohol

isopropyl alcohol

[ ī′sə-prō′pəl ]

A clear, colorless, flammable, mobile liquid that is one of the two isomers of propyl alcohol. It is used in antifreeze compounds, rubbing alcohol, lotions, and cosmetics, and also as a solvent for gums, shellac, and essential oils. Chemical formula: C3H8O.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.