Definition

A clear, colorless liquid that has a pleasant smell, often used in perfumes and flavorings, and can be found in certain natural sources like almonds.

Example

The chemist used benzaldehyde to create a new fragrance for the perfume.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of benzaldehyde?

Yeah, I think it's used in perfumes, right?

Exactly! It's also found in bitter almonds.

That's interesting! I didn't know it had so many uses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Benzaldehyde is formed from "benz-" (from the German word 'Benzin', meaning resin or gum) and "aldehyde" (from the Latin 'aldehydum', which is derived from 'al-' (meaning from) and 'dehydrare' (meaning to dehydrate)). The word refers to a compound derived from benzene that contains an aldehyde functional group, indicating it is a type of aromatic aldehyde.

Memory Tip

Think of 'benz-' as relating to a resin and 'aldehyde' as a compound that comes from dehydration. This helps you remember that benzaldehyde is a compound derived from benzene with an aldehyde group.

Visually Confused Words