Word Study
Naphthalene
CIDE DICTIONARY
Naphthalene, n.
A white crystalline aromatic hydrocarbon, C10H8 , analogous to benzene, and obtained by the distillation of certain bituminous materials, such as the heavy oil of coal tar. It is the type and basis of a large number of derivatives among organic compounds. Formerly called also naphthaline . [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
Naphthalene, n. a white crystalline aromatic substance produced by the distillation of coal tar and used in mothballs and the manufacture of dyes etc.
Derivative
naphthalic adj.
Etymology
NAPHTHA + -ENE
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