pyrogallol

[ pahy-ruh-gal-awl, -ol, -guh-lawl, -lol ]

noun

1. a white, crystalline, water-soluble, poisonous, solid, phenolic compound, C 6 H 3 (OH) 3 , obtained by heating gallic acid and water: used chiefly as a developer in photography, as a mordant for wool, in dyeing, and in medicine in the treatment of certain skin conditions.

pyrogallol

/ ˌpaɪrəʊˈɡælɒl /

noun

1. a white lustrous crystalline soluble phenol with weakly acidic properties; 1,2,3-trihydroxybenzene: used as a photographic developer and for absorbing oxygen. Formula: C 6 H 3 (OH) 3

Derived Forms

• ˌpyroˈgallic, adjective

Other Words From

• py·ro·gal·lic [pahy-r, uh, -, gal, -ik, -, gaw, -lik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyrogallol¹

First recorded in 1875–80; pyro- + gall(ic) ² + -ol ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyrogallol¹

C20: from pyro- + gall ( ic )² + -ol ¹

Example Sentences

Gallic acid is a type of pyrogallol and is primarily found in coffees and teas.

From Time

The one called the pyrogallol group, which includes sumac, gall nuts and oak bark, is commended by the Committee of the Society of Arts.

From Project Gutenberg

An alkaline solution of pyrogallol is also used; this solution rapidly absorbs oxygen, becoming black in colour, and it is necessary to prepare the solution immediately before use.

From Project Gutenberg

The pyrogallol method of Preisz also proved to be unreliable in his hands.

From Project Gutenberg

The tannins are divided into two general classes, known respectively as the pyrogallol tannins and the catechol tannins.

From Project Gutenberg