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Cyanide: meaning, definitions and examples

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cyanide

 

[ ˈsaɪənaɪd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

toxic substance

Cyanide is a highly toxic compound that can exist in various forms such as gas, liquid, or solid. It is composed of one carbon atom and one nitrogen atom and is known for its ability to inhibit cellular respiration. When absorbed by the body, cyanide can lead to rapid death by preventing cells from utilizing oxygen. The most common forms include hydrogen cyanide and sodium cyanide, both of which are used in industrial processes, particularly in mining and manufacturing. Due to its lethality, cyanide is also associated with poisonings and chemical warfare.

Synonyms

poison, toxin, venom.

Examples of usage

  • The factory produces cyanide in large quantities.
  • Cyanide is used in gold extraction.
  • Inhaling cyanide gas can be fatal.
  • Cyanide poisoning requires immediate medical attention.

Translations

Translations of the word "cyanide" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cianeto

🇮🇳 साइनाइड

🇩🇪 Zyanid

🇮🇩 sianida

🇺🇦 ціанід

🇵🇱 cyjanek

🇯🇵 シアン化物

🇫🇷 cyanure

🇪🇸 cianuro

🇹🇷 siyanür

🇰🇷 시안화물

🇸🇦 سيانيد

🇨🇿 kyanid

🇸🇰 kyanid

🇨🇳 氰化物

🇸🇮 cianid

🇮🇸 síanið

🇰🇿 цианид

🇬🇪 ციანიდი

🇦🇿 siyanid

🇲🇽 cianuro

Etymology

The word 'cyanide' comes from the Greek word 'kyanos', which means 'dark blue'. This naming relates to the blue pigment produced during experiments with iron cyanide compounds in the early 19th century. The term first appeared in scientific literature in the 18th century, particularly associated with cyanogen, a poisonous gas derived from the distillation of certain nitrogen-containing compounds. Since then, cyanide has played a prominent role in various industrial applications, especially in metallurgy and the production of plastics and dyes. The awareness of its hazardous nature has evolved over time, emphasizing the necessity for safety regulations in handling and using this potent chemical. Cyanide's reputation as a dangerous substance has also made it popular in popular culture, often linked to criminal acts and dramatic plots.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,996, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.