What does chloroform mean?
Chloroform is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid with the chemical formula CHCl3. It was historically used as an anesthetic and solvent, but its use has largely been discontinued due to its toxicity and potential for abuse. Chloroform can cause dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, and prolonged exposure can lead to more severe health problems. Despite its risks, chloroform remains an important term in medical and scientific contexts, and its history as an anesthetic has had a lasting impact on the development of modern medicine. Today, chloroform is primarily used as a solvent in laboratory settings.
A colorless, sweet-smelling liquid used as a solvent and formerly as an anesthetic.
"The doctor administered chloroform to the patient before performing the surgery."
Referring to the substance itself.
To anesthetize or render unconscious using chloroform.
"The patient was chloroformed before the operation."
Referring to the act of administering chloroform.
Rarely used, typically in scientific or technical contexts.
"The laboratory stored several chloroforms for use in experiments."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of chloroform
The term 'chloroform' originated from the French words 'chlor' (chlorine) and 'forme' (form), referring to its composition from chlorine and formic acid. Chloroform was first synthesized in the 1830s and quickly gained use as an anesthetic due to its ability to induce unconsciousness. The language of origin is French, and it has cognates in many European languages.
Usage notes
Chloroform is a formal or technical term, often used in medical or scientific contexts. It has a negative connotation due to its toxicity and potential for abuse.