carbolic acid

/ kɑːˈbɒlɪk /

noun

1. another name for phenol, esp when it is used as an antiseptic or disinfectant

carbolic acid

/ kär-bŏl′ĭk /

1. See phenol

Word History and Origins

Origin of carbolic acid¹

C19: carbolic, from carbo- + -ol ¹+ -ic

Example Sentences

They found that if they cleaned an infected wound with chemicals such as carbolic acid, bromine, nitric acid, and iodine, they could sometimes heal it.

From Literature

He explained that when he washed open wounds with carbolic acid, fewer patients died.

From Literature

Lister recommended that doctors put a diluted carbolic acid solution on wounds after injury or surgery and also soak bandages and dressings in the chemical.

From Literature

For that reason, he urged doctors to wash their hands thoroughly and to sterilize hands and surgical instruments with carbolic acid.

From Literature

Lister also demonstrated surgeries using carbolic acid.

From Literature