Definition

Relating to or having the characteristics of a chemical compound called ammonia, which has a strong smell and is often used in cleaning products.

Example

The ammoniac solution was used in the laboratory for various experiments.

Conversation

Have you noticed that strong smell in the lab lately?

Yeah, it kind of smells ammoniac, doesn't it?

I thought it was just me! It really makes it hard to concentrate.

Definitely! We should probably mention it to the professor.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A strong-smelling substance obtained from a plant, used in the past for making perfumes and as a medicine to help with breathing and to stimulate the body.

Example

The herbalist recommended ammoniac for its medicinal properties.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of ammoniac in herbal remedies?

Yeah, I think it's used for its stimulating properties, right?

Exactly! Some people even use it in plasters for sore muscles.

Root Explanation

Ammoniac is derived from the word "ammonia" (from New Latin *ammonium*, which comes from the Greek *ammoniakos*, meaning pertaining to Ammon, the Egyptian god). The suffix "-iac" (meaning relating to or characterized by) indicates a connection to ammonia. Thus, ammoniac refers to something that is related to or characterized by ammonia.

Memory Tip

Think of ammonia being connected to the Egyptian god Ammon, which helps you remember that ammoniac relates to ammonia.

Visually Confused Words