tabun

/ tɑːˈbuːn /

noun

1. an organic compound used in chemical warfare as a lethal nerve gas. Formula: C 2 H 5 OP(O)(CN)N(CH 3 ) 2

Word History and Origins

Origin of tabun¹

C20: from German, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

Unfortunately, the absence of such an ethical standard enabled Iraqi president Saddam Hussein to start large-scale production of tabun and sarin in 1981, using equipment and chemicals supplied by European and US companies.

From Nature

These substances - including tabun and sarin - are broken down by water and can evaporate.

From BBC

The most potent of the novichok substances are considered to be more lethal than VX, the most deadly of the familiar nerve agents, which include sarin, tabun and soman.

From The Guardian

The two substances – too toxic to be used as commercial insecticides in agriculture – became known as tabun and sarin.

From Scientific American

In 1987, as a soldier fighting for Iran in its war with Iraq, he came across a hillside strewn with comrades killed by an Iraqi nerve agent, perhaps tabun or sarin.

From Science Magazine