Chemical: meaning, definitions and examples

⚗️
Add to dictionary

chemical

 

[ ˈkɛmɪkəl ]

Noun / Adjective
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

science

A substance produced by or used in a chemical process.

Synonyms

compound, element, substance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
chemical

This term is broad and can refer to any compound or substance that results from a reaction involving atomic or molecular changes. It's often used in contexts related to chemistry, industry, or material science.

  • The plant releases several harmful chemicals into the air
  • The scientist is studying the chemical properties of the new substance
substance

This term is general and can refer to any material with a definite chemical composition. It's suitable for everyday use as well as scientific contexts.

  • Please avoid contact with this toxic substance
  • The researchers discovered a new substance with unique properties
compound

Used to describe a substance formed when two or more chemical elements are chemically bonded together. It is often used in a scientific or technical context.

  • Water is a compound made from hydrogen and oxygen
  • The lab is synthesizing new organic compounds for cancer research
element

Refers to a substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. It's mostly used in basic scientific discussions, particularly in chemistry.

  • Gold is a precious element
  • The periodic table organizes all known elements

Examples of usage

  • The scientist is studying the properties of a new chemical compound.
  • Chemicals are often used in manufacturing processes.
Context #2 | Adjective

chemistry

Relating to chemistry or the interactions of substances as studied in chemistry.

Examples of usage

  • He has a strong background in chemical engineering.
  • The chemical properties of the elements vary.

Translations

Translations of the word "chemical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 químico

🇮🇳 रासायनिक

🇩🇪 chemisch

🇮🇩 kimia

🇺🇦 хімічний

🇵🇱 chemiczny

🇯🇵 化学的 (かがくてき)

🇫🇷 chimique

🇪🇸 químico

🇹🇷 kimyasal

🇰🇷 화학의

🇸🇦 كيميائي

🇨🇿 chemický

🇸🇰 chemický

🇨🇳 化学的 (huàxué de)

🇸🇮 kemičen

🇮🇸 efnafræðilegur

🇰🇿 химиялық

🇬🇪 ქიმიური

🇦🇿 kimyəvi

🇲🇽 químico

Etymology

The word 'chemical' originated from the late 16th century, from the French chimique or medieval Latin chimicus, based on the Arabic word kīmiyā', from the Greek word khēmeia. The term originally referred to alchemy, the medieval forerunner of chemistry, and later evolved to its current meaning.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,284, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.