Definition

A clear liquid made from formaldehyde, often used to preserve biological specimens and in various industrial applications.

Example

The scientist used formalin to preserve the tissue samples for further study.

Conversation

Have you ever worked with formalin in the lab?

Yeah, I used it to preserve some samples once.

I find it a bit tricky to handle because of the smell.

Same here! But it's really useful for keeping specimens intact.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Formalin is derived from 'formaldehyde' (a compound name where 'form-' comes from 'formica' in Latin, meaning 'ant' or 'shape', and '-aldehyde' from 'al' (meaning 'from') and 'dehydrogenare' (meaning 'to remove hydrogen')). The term refers to a solution of formaldehyde in water, used as a preservative and disinfectant.

Memory Tip

Think of 'form' as relating to 'shape' and remember that formalin is a solution that helps preserve biological shapes.

Visually Confused Words