nitrile

Definition

Any of a class of organic compounds containing a cyano functional group −C≡N; they are named as derivatives of the appropriate carboxylic acid.

Etymology

Derived from benzonitrile which contains the −C≡N group. Benzonitrile was discovered and named by Hermann Fehling in 1844.

Example Sentences

• "Sitting in a box under my bed are the nitrile gloves that I bought to practise with my forensic kit."