thiol

[ thahy-awl, -ol ]

noun

1. mercaptan.

adjective

1. mercapto.

thiol

/ ˈθaɪɒl /

noun

1. any of a class of sulphur-containing organic compounds with the formula RSH, where R is an organic group Also called (not in technical usage)mercaptan

thiol

/ thī′ôl′,-ōl′ /

1. A sulfur-containing organic compound having the general formula RSH, where R is another element or radical. Thiols are typically very volatile and strong-smelling, and are responsible for the odor of onions, garlic, rotting flesh, and skunk musk.
2. Also called mercaptan

Other Words From

• thi·ol·ic [thahy-, ol, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of thiol¹

First recorded in 1885–90; thi- + -ol ¹