isopropyl alcohol


noun Chemistry.

a colorless, flammable, water-soluble liquid, C3H8O, produced from propylene by the action of sulfuric acid and hydrolysis: used chiefly in the manufacture of antifreeze and rubbing alcohol and as a solvent.
Also called dimethylcarbinol, isopropanol, secondary propyl alcohol.

Origin of isopropyl alcohol

First recorded in 1870–75

Medical definitions for isopropyl alcohol

isopropyl alcohol
[ ī′sə-prōpəl ]

n.

A clear, colorless, flammable, mobile liquid used in antifreeze compounds, in lotions and cosmetics, and as a solvent for gums, shellac, and essential oils.

Scientific definitions for isopropyl alcohol

isopropyl alcohol
[ ī′sə-prōpəl ]

A clear, colorless, flammable, mobile liquid that is one of the two isomers of propyl alcohol. It is used in antifreeze compounds, rubbing alcohol, lotions, and cosmetics, and also as a solvent for gums, shellac, and essential oils. Chemical formula: C3H8O.