Definition

Relating to or containing a type of hydrocarbon known as olefins, which are unsaturated compounds with at least one carbon-carbon double bond.

Example

The olefinic compounds in the mixture reacted quickly during the chemical process.

Conversation

I was reading about different types of plastics yesterday.

Oh really? What did you find interesting?

I learned that some are olefinic, which means they contain olefins.

That sounds cool! I didn't know there were so many varieties of plastics.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Olefinic → It is derived from 'olefin' (from Latin 'oleum', meaning oil) and the suffix '-ic' (meaning pertaining to). The term 'olefinic' refers to compounds that are related to or derived from olefins, which are hydrocarbons that contain at least one double bond between carbon atoms, often resembling oils in their properties.

Memory Tip

Think of 'oleum' meaning oil, and remember that 'olefinic' describes something related to oil-like compounds.

Visually Confused Words