formaldehyde

/fɔrˈmældəhaɪd/
noun
  1. A strong-smelling chemical gas used to make plastics, glues, and as a preservative for dead animals or body parts.
    • The biology lab uses formaldehyde to preserve frogs for dissection.
    • Some furniture contains formaldehyde in the glue that holds the wood together.
    • The strong smell of formaldehyde filled the room where the specimens were stored.
  2. A chemical used in some building materials and household products that can be harmful to health in high amounts.
    • The government set safety limits for formaldehyde in manufactured wood products.
    • New carpets can release formaldehyde gas into the air for several months.
    • Many people buy air purifiers to reduce formaldehyde levels in their homes.
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