isopropyl alcohol

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. a colorless, flammable, water-soluble liquid, C 3 H 8 O, 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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isopropyl alcohol Scientific  

/ ī′sə-prō′pəl /

1. 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: C ₃ H ₈ O.

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Etymology

Origin of isopropyl alcohol

First recorded in 1870–75

Compare meaning

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

• isopropyl alcohol vs. rubbing alcohol

Example Sentences

Patients are treated by removal of the maggots, which need to be killed by putting them into a sealed container of concentrated ethyl or isopropyl alcohol then disposed of as biohazardous waste.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 17, 2025

Of the 3,205 closed-fracture patients who received 0.7% iodine povacrylex in 74% isopropyl alcohol, 77, or 2.4 percent, developed a surgical-site infection.

From Science Daily • Feb. 1, 2024

Some installers use a solution of isopropyl alcohol to clean the paint and then use compressed air to blow off any remaining dirt particles.

From Seattle Times • May 18, 2022

The same holds true for thermometers, acetaminophen, isopropyl alcohol and other basic medical supplies.

From Washington Post • Jul. 26, 2021

The grouping CH.OH characterizes the secondary alcohols; isopropyl alcohol is the simplest member of this class.

From The Project Gutenberg Encyclopedia Volume 1 of 28 by Project Gutenberg