methylene

noun

meth·​y·​lene ˈme-thə-ˌlēn How to pronounce methylene (audio)
-lən
: a divalent hydrocarbon group CH2 derived from methane

Examples of methylene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some nail hardeners and polishes contain formaldehyde that may be listed on the product label as formalin or methylene glycol, according to the Food and Drug Administration. — Topher Sanders, ProPublica, 9 Dec. 2024 To avoid it, scan ingredient lists for toluene sulfonamide/formaldehyde resin, formalin, and methylene glycol – all ingredients that indicate formaldehyde is either in the formula or released by the formula. — Marci Robin, Allure, 29 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French méthylène, from Greek methy wine + hylē wood — more at mead

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of methylene was in 1835

Phrases Containing methylene

Rhymes for methylene

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methylene
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Cite this Entry

“Methylene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/methylene. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

methylene

noun
meth·​y·​lene ˈmeth-ə-ˌlēn How to pronounce methylene (audio) -lən How to pronounce methylene (audio)
: a bivalent hydrocarbon radical CH2 derived from methane by removal of two hydrogen atoms
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