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naphtha

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˈnæfθə//

KK: /ˈnæfθə/

noun
Definition

A type of flammable liquid made from petroleum or natural gas, often used as a fuel or solvent.


Example

The mechanic used naphtha to clean the engine parts.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever worked with naphtha in your projects?
Sloth B
No, I haven't. What is it used for?
Sloth A
It's mainly a solvent and can even be used as a fuel.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! I should look into it for my next experiment.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
solvent
fuel
hydrocarbon
Antonyms
solid
gas
inert
Root Explanation

Naphtha originates from the Greek word "ναφθά" (naphthá), meaning a type of flammable oil or liquid. The term has been used historically to refer to various volatile liquids derived from petroleum or natural sources.

Memory Tip

Imagine a flammable liquid that has been known since ancient times — that's what naphtha refers to, derived from the Greek word for this type of oil.

Visually Confused Words
aphtha
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