pyridine

[ pir-i-deen, -din ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a colorless, flammable, liquid organic base, C 5 H 5 N, having a disagreeable odor, usually obtained from coal or synthesized from acetaldehyde and ammonia: used chiefly as a solvent and in organic synthesis.

pyridine

/ ˈpɪrɪˌdiːn /

noun

1. a colourless hygroscopic liquid with a characteristic odour. It is a basic heterocyclic compound containing one nitrogen atom and five carbon atoms in its molecules and is used as a solvent and in preparing other organic chemicals. Formula: C 5 H 5 N

pyridine

/ pĭr′ĭ-dēn′ /

1. Any of a class of organic compounds containing a six-member ring in which one of the carbon atoms has been replaced by a nitrogen atom. Pyridines include compounds used as water repellents, herbicides, and various drugs. The pyridine ring structure is also part of many larger compounds, including niacin and nicotine.
2. The simplest of these compounds, a flammable, colorless or yellowish liquid base having a penetrating odor. It is used as a solvent and waterproofing agent and in the manufacture of various drugs and vitamins. Chemical formula: C 5 H 5 N.

Other Words From

• py·rid·ic [pahy-, rid, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyridine¹

First recorded in 1850–55; pyr- + -id ³ + -ine ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyridine¹

C19: from pyro- + -id ³ + -ine ²

Example Sentences

They consist of an electron-abundant benzene ring fused to an electron-deficient pyridine ring; these electronically distinct rings can be modified independently by adjusting reaction conditions.

From Science Daily

However, a panel of 12 experts said in January no definitive cause had been found, but they ruled out pyridine and concluded it was possible a disease or parasite new to UK waters was responsible.

From BBC

However, the panel of 12 experts said in January no definitive cause had been found, but they ruled out pyridine and concluded it was possible a disease or parasite new to UK waters was responsible.

From BBC

Measures should include "thorough sampling and testing for chemical pollutants such as pyridine," it said.

From BBC

Research last year by academics, backed by the fishing industry, suggested the industrial pollutant pyridine, possibly from dredging at the mouth of the River Tees, as a potential cause.

From Seattle Times