propylene glycol

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. a colorless, viscous, hygroscopic liquid, C 3 H 8 O, used chiefly as a lubricant, as an antifreeze, as a heat transfer fluid, and as a solvent for fats, oils, waxes, and resins.

---

propylene glycol British  

noun

1. Systematic name: 1,2-dihydroxypropane.  a colourless viscous hydroscopic sweet-tasting compound used as an antifreeze and brake fluid. Formula: CH 3 CH(OH)CH 2 OH

---

propylene glycol Scientific  

1. A colorless, viscous liquid used in antifreeze solutions, in hydraulic fluids, and as a solvent. Unlike ethylene glycol, it is not toxic and is also used in foods, cosmetics, and oral hygiene products. Chemical formula: C ₃ H ₈ O ₂ .

---

Etymology

Origin of propylene glycol

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

Bangor University researcher Dr Ben Exton investigated the impact of de-icing chemicals such as propylene glycol for his PhD.

From BBC • May 10, 2025

While, propylene glycol is non-toxic and widely used in medicines, cosmetics and food, ethylene glycol is toxic and used in paint, pens and brake fluid.

From BBC • Nov. 1, 2023

The Public Prosecutor said that between October 2021 and February 2022 the company received two batches of propylene glycol, which is used for making cough syrup.

From BBC • Nov. 1, 2023

"Marion bought commercial-grade propylene glycol," said a second source, an investigator, who declined to be named while the inquiry is ongoing.

From Reuters • Jun. 28, 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.