cyanogen

[ sahy-an-uh-juh n, -jen ]

/ saɪˈæn ə dʒən, -ˌdʒɛn /

a colorless, poisonous, flammable, water-soluble gas, C2N2, having an almondlike odor: used chiefly in organic synthesis.

cyano group.

Origin of cyanogen

First recorded in 1820–30; cyano-¹ + -gen

Cyanogen and hydrocyanic acid, recognizable by their odour, indicate decomposable cyanides.

Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 1 |Various
For a connected view of the various compounds of cyanogen employed in the arts, see Prussian Blue.

A Dictionary of Arts, Manufactures and Mines |Andrew Ure
If cyanogen be given the chance it will take unto itself an atom of hydrogen, producing the deadly hydrocyanic or prussic acid.

Marvels of Scientific Invention |Thomas W. Corbin
Nitrogen, too, though not directly recognized, proves its presence by the lines of cyanogen.

Are the Planets Inhabited? |E. Walter Maunder

The name was suggested by Prussian blue, the earliest known compound of cyanogen.

Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 7, Slice 8 |Various

cyanogen

/ (saɪˈænədʒɪn) /

an extremely poisonous colourless flammable gas with an almond-like odour: has been used in chemical warfare. Formula: (CN) 2

C19: from French cyanogène; see cyano-, -gen; so named because it is one of the constituents of Prussian blue