Definition

A type of chemical compound that includes both a cyanide group and a hydroxyl group.

Example

Cyanohydrins are important in organic chemistry for synthesizing other compounds.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a cyanohydrin?

I think I read about it in my chemistry book once.

Yeah, it's interesting how it has both the CN and OH groups.

Right! I love learning about different compounds like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cyanohydrin is formed from "cyano-" (from Greek "kyanos", meaning dark blue or cyan) and "hydrin" (from the Greek "hydor", meaning water). The term refers to a compound containing a cyanide group and a hydroxyl group, thus relating to both cyanide and water.

Memory Tip

Think of 'cyan' as relating to the color blue and 'hydrin' as relating to water, which helps you remember that cyanohydrin is a compound involving both cyanide and water.

Visually Confused Words