benzene

noun

ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn How to pronounce benzene (audio) ben-ˈzēn How to pronounce benzene (audio)
: a colorless volatile flammable toxic liquid aromatic hydrocarbon C6H6 used in organic synthesis, as a solvent, and as a motor fuel
benzenoid
ˈben-zə-ˌnȯid How to pronounce benzene (audio)
adjective or noun

Examples of benzene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Laboratory testing confirms the blends meet regulatory standards, deliver superior anti-knock and anti-detonation performance, and maintain high oxidation stability, along with low sulfur and benzene levels. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 2 Sep. 2026 Active and abandoned oil and gas wells can spread carcinogens such as benzene, volatile organic compounds and radioactive material into surrounding soil, water and air. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026 Most of the short-term health risks come from benzene evaporating from the refinery's wastewater treatment system, the report said. — Carlos E. Castañeda, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026 Vinyl chloride is a solvent that can get into children’s toys during the manufacturing process, Bennett explains, and, like benzene, is known to be cancerous. — Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for benzene

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary benz- + -ene

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of benzene was in 1833

Phrases Containing benzene

Rhymes for benzene

See All Rhymes for benzene

Browse Nearby Words

Benzedrine
benzene
benzenediazonium
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Benzene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benzene. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

benzene

noun
ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn How to pronounce benzene (audio)
ben-ˈzēn
: a colorless flammable liquid that evaporates easily and is used to make or dissolve other chemicals or as a motor fuel

Medical Definition

benzene

noun
ben·​zene ˈben-ˌzēn How to pronounce benzene (audio) ben-ˈ How to pronounce benzene (audio)
: a colorless volatile flammable toxic liquid aromatic hydrocarbon C6H6 used in organic synthesis, as a solvent, and as a motor fuel

called also benzol

benzenoid
ˈben-zə-ˌnȯid How to pronounce benzene (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on benzene

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about benzene

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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