Definition

A clear, colorless liquid made from acetaldehyde, used mainly as a solvent and for its calming effects.

Example

The doctor prescribed paraldehyde to help the patient relax during the procedure.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of paraldehyde?

Yeah, I think it's used as a sedative, right?

Exactly! It's pretty interesting how it's derived from acetaldehyde.

I read it can also help with convulsions; that's quite fascinating.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Paraldehyde is formed from "para-" (meaning alongside or beyond) and "aldehyde" (from the Latin "alcohol dehydrogenatum", meaning an organic compound containing a carbonyl group). The word refers to a compound that is a derivative of aldehyde, existing alongside it in structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'para-' meaning 'alongside' and 'aldehyde' as a type of organic compound. This helps you remember that paraldehyde is a compound related to aldehyde.

Visually Confused Words