tabun

/ tɑːˈbuːn /

noun

1. an organic compound used in chemical warfare as a lethal nerve gas. Formula: C 2 H 5 OP(O)(CN)N(CH 3 ) 2

Word History and Origins

Origin of tabun¹

C20: from German, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

Unfortunately, the absence of such an ethical standard enabled Iraqi president Saddam Hussein to start large-scale production of tabun and sarin in 1981, using equipment and chemicals supplied by European and US companies.

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These substances - including tabun and sarin - are broken down by water and can evaporate.

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The most potent of the novichok substances are considered to be more lethal than VX, the most deadly of the familiar nerve agents, which include sarin, tabun and soman.

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The two substances – too toxic to be used as commercial insecticides in agriculture – became known as tabun and sarin.

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In 1987, as a soldier fighting for Iran in its war with Iraq, he came across a hillside strewn with comrades killed by an Iraqi nerve agent, perhaps tabun or sarin.

Read more on Science Magazine