Definition

A chemical compound that contains three ethyl groups attached to a central atom or molecule.

Example

Triethyl is often used in organic chemistry as a building block for more complex molecules.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of triethyl compounds in chemistry?

Yeah, I think they have three ethyl groups, right?

Exactly! I found a cool article about their applications.

That sounds interesting! I should read it too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Triethyl is formed from "tri-" (meaning three) and "ethyl" (from Greek "aithylios", meaning related to ethyl alcohol or the ethyl group). The word refers to a compound containing three ethyl groups.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tri-' meaning three, and 'ethyl' relating to a specific chemical group. This helps you remember that triethyl refers to a compound with three ethyl groups.

Visually Confused Words