Definition

A chemical group made up of one carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms, often found in various organic compounds.

Example

Methyl groups are commonly used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals.

Conversation

I just learned about this compound that contains a methyl group.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It’s basically a radical that comes from methane, really useful in organic chemistry.

Got it! That sounds interesting, I need to read more about methyl compounds!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Methyl → It is formed from "methylen" (from Greek "methylenos", meaning a chemical group derived from methane) and the suffix "-yl" (used in chemistry to denote a radical or group). The word "methyl" refers to a specific chemical group derived from methane, consisting of one carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek root for methane, which is a simple gas, and remember that methyl is a group derived from it, consisting of one carbon and three hydrogens.

Visually Confused Words