Definition

A yellow crystalline substance that is used as an explosive, particularly in detonators.

Example

The military used tetryl as a reliable detonator in their explosives.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of tetryl?

Yeah, I think it's some kind of explosive, right?

Exactly! It's often used as a detonator in military applications.

That sounds pretty intense; I didn't know much about explosives.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tetryl is a chemical compound name derived from the prefix 'tetra-' (from Greek 'tettares', meaning four) and the suffix '-yl' (used in chemistry to denote a radical or group derived from a compound). The name 'tetryl' indicates a compound related to a four-carbon structure, specifically in the context of its chemical composition.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tetra-' meaning four, which helps you remember that 'tetryl' is related to a compound with a four-carbon structure.

Visually Confused Words