| either of two isomeric hydroxyl derivatives, C1 0H7OH, of naphthalene (alpha-naphthol or 1-naphthol and beta-naphthol or 2-naphthol), white or yellowish crystals, with a phenolic odor, that darken on exposure to light: used chiefly in dyes, drugs, perfumes, and insecticides. |
naphthol naph·thol (nāf'thôl', -thōl', nāp'-) or naph·tol (-tôl, -tōl)
n.
An organic compound occurring in two isomeric forms, alpha-naphthol and beta-naphthol. Also called naphthalenol.
| naphthol (nāf'thôl', -thōl', nāp'-) Pronunciation Key
A poisonous organic compound occurring in two isomeric forms. Both isomers are important in the manufacture of dyes, and also in making antiseptics, insecticides, and tanning agents. Naphthol consists of a hydroxyl group (OH) attached to naphthalene. Chemical formula: C10H8O. |