Definition

A thick, pale yellow liquid that is a powerful explosive and is also used in medicine to widen blood vessels.

Example

Nitroglycerine is often used in dynamite and can also help treat heart conditions.

Conversation

Did you know that nitroglycerine is not just an explosive?

Really? I thought it was only used in bombs.

It’s also used in medicine as a vasodilator for heart conditions.

That's interesting! I had no idea it had medical uses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nitroglycerine is formed from "nitro-" (from Latin "nitrum", meaning saltpeter or nitrate) and "glycerine" (from Greek "glykys", meaning sweet). The word refers to a sweet-tasting compound containing nitrogen, which is used as an explosive.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nitro-' as relating to nitrogen and 'glycerine' as a sweet substance, which helps you remember that nitroglycerine is a nitrogen-containing compound that has a sweet taste.

Visually Confused Words