# formaldehyde

/fɝˈmæɫdəˌhaɪd/ (US) · /fɔːmˈældɪhˌaɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/formaldehyde
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a clear, colorless gas with a very strong, sharp smell. It is used to preserve dead bodies and to make wood and paper stronger.

For teachers: a colorless, pungent, flammable gas with a molecular formula of CH₂O. It is widely used as a preservative and a chemical intermediate in the production of resins and plastics.

## Examples

- The doctor used formaldehyde to preserve the tissue samples.
- Workers in the furniture factory must wear protective masks to avoid inhaling formaldehyde fumes.
- While formaldehyde is an essential component in the production of many synthetic materials, its release into the atmosphere remains a significant concern for environmental health and safety regulations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.