ethylene oxide

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. a colorless, odorless, gaseous, toxic, ring compound, C 2 H 4 O, usually obtained by the oxidation of ethylene: used chiefly in the synthesis of ethylene glycol.

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Etymology

Origin of ethylene oxide

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

Higher autism severity scores and weaker daily living skills were also linked with ethylene oxide.

From Salon • Aug. 21, 2025

By comparison, one of the largest ethylene oxide emitters in the country, the Union Carbide plant in Louisiana, emitted 6,894 lbs. in 2024.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 16, 2025

The rule from which they are seeking relief applies to a chemical known as ethylene oxide, or EtO, which is commonly used to sterilize medical devices that can’t be cleaned using steam or radiation.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 16, 2025

The Spices Board - which has five quality evaluation labs - has issued guidelines to exporters to check for use of ethylene oxide.

From BBC • May 14, 2024

Because of the ease with which is cloud of ethylene oxide or propylene oxide can be detonated, these two materials are the most commonly used.

From U.S. Patent 4,293,314: Gelled Fuel-Air Explosive October 6, 1981. by Stull, Bertram O.