Definition

A white solid substance made from coal tar or petroleum, often used to make dyes, moth repellents, and explosives.

Example

The mothballs in the closet contained naphthalene to keep the insects away.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of naphthalene?

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

Exactly! I read it can also be used in dyes and solvents.

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

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Naphthalene is derived from the Greek "naphtha" (meaning a type of oil or liquid) and the suffix "-ene" (indicating a hydrocarbon compound). The word refers to a specific type of hydrocarbon derived from coal tar, which is oily in nature.

Memory Tip

Think of 'naphtha' as a type of oil, and remember that 'naphthalene' is a compound that comes from this oily substance.

Visually Confused Words