catechol

[ kat-i-kawl, -kol ]
/ ˈkæt ɪˌkɔl, -ˌkɒl /

noun

a colorless, crystalline, dihydroxyl derivative of benzene, C6H6O2, the ortho isomer, used chiefly in photography, for dyeing, and as a reagent; pyrocatechol.

Origin of catechol

First recorded in 1875–80; catech(u) + -ol1

Example sentences from the Web for catechol

British Dictionary definitions for catechol

catechol
/ (ˈkætɪˌtʃɒl, -ˌkɒl) /

noun

a colourless crystalline phenol found in resins and lignins; 1,2-dihydroxybenzene. It is used as a photographic developer. Formula: C 6 H 4 (OH) 2 Also called: pyrocatechol

Word Origin for catechol

C20: from catechu + -ol 1

Medical definitions for catechol

catechol
[ kătĭ-kôl′, -kōl′ ]

n.

pyrocatechol

Scientific definitions for catechol

catechol
[ kătĭ-kôl′, -kōl′ ]

A biologically important organic phenol occurring naturally in lignins and resins. It has two hydroxyl groups attached to a benzene ring. Catechol is very caustic and is used in dyeing and as a photographic developer and an antiseptic. Chemical formula: C6H6O2.