What does formaline mean?
Formaline is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid used as a disinfectant and a preservative. It is commonly used in scientific and medical contexts, such as preserving biological specimens and embalming fluids. Formaline is also found in household cleaning products. The use of formaline is often associated with a strong, pungent smell. While it is effective as a disinfectant, formaline can be hazardous to human health if inhaled or ingested in large quantities. As a result, its use is heavily regulated in many countries.
nounFormaline is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid used as a disinfectant and a preservative, especially for biological specimens.
- A colorless, sweet-smelling liquid used as a disinfectant and a preservative.
"The lab used formaline to preserve the frog specimens for further study."
"The lab used formaline to preserve the frog specimens for further study."
"Formaline is commonly used in embalming fluids."
Formaline is often used as a singular noun, but can be used as a plural noun in certain contexts, such as referring to multiple solutions of formaldehyde.
"The lab used multiple formalines to preserve the frog specimens."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of formaline
Formaline is derived from the Latin word 'formalis,' meaning 'of or pertaining to form.' It is a solution of formaldehyde, a chemical compound used as a disinfectant and a preservative.
Usage notes
Formaline is often used in scientific and medical contexts, but can also be found in household cleaning products.