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Nitroglycerin: meaning, definitions and examples

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nitroglycerin

 

[ˌnaɪtroʊˈɡlɪsərɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

explosive substance

Nitroglycerin is a highly explosive liquid that is used in the production of dynamite and other explosives. It is extremely volatile and must be handled with extreme caution.

Synonyms

blasting agent, dynamite, explosive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nitroglycerin

Chemical substance used primarily in medicine for treating heart conditions and also as an ingredient in explosives.

  • Nitroglycerin is prescribed for patients with heart issues to avoid angina.
  • They used nitroglycerin in the lab to create a controlled explosion.
dynamite

A high-powered explosive invented by Alfred Nobel, typically used in demolition, mining, and construction.

  • The engineers used dynamite to clear the site for the new highway.
  • When mixed properly, dynamite can safely demolish large structures.
explosive

General term for any substance that can cause a rapid and violent release of energy, used in a variety of situations from military applications to construction.

  • The bomb squad safely defused the explosive found in the locker.
  • Explosives are integral in various industries, including mining and construction.
blasting agent

Material used specifically for large-scale demolition, mining, or construction that is typically safer to handle than other explosives.

  • The construction crew used a blasting agent to demolish the old building.
  • Blasting agents are essential in the mining industry for breaking apart rock formations.

Examples of usage

  • Be careful when working with nitroglycerin, as even a small amount can cause a massive explosion.
  • Nitroglycerin was first discovered in 1847 by an Italian chemist named Ascanio Sobrero.
Context #2 | Noun

medical use

In the medical field, nitroglycerin is used to treat angina, a condition characterized by chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart. It works by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow.

Synonyms

angina medication, heart medication.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nitroglycerin

Repeated entry, similar context as the first 'nitroglycerin' entry.
angina medication

Used to specifically refer to medications that treat or alleviate the symptoms of angina, a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.

  • Angina medication is crucial for someone with frequent chest pain.
  • He always carries his angina medication with him.
heart medication

A general term for any medicine used to treat heart-related conditions, including but not limited to angina, heart failure, or high blood pressure.

  • The patient needs various heart medications to manage his condition.
  • Heart medication should be taken as prescribed by a doctor.

Examples of usage

  • Patients with angina may be prescribed nitroglycerin to help relieve their chest pain.
  • Some people carry nitroglycerin tablets with them in case they experience angina symptoms.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Discovered in 1847 by Italian chemist Ascanio Sobrero, it was first intended for medical use.
  • Used in the construction industry for blasting through rocks and creating tunnels, especially during the expansion of railroads.

Science

  • It is created by mixing glycerin with nitric acid and sulfuric acid, a process that requires careful handling due to its volatile nature.
  • Nitroglycerin expands rapidly when heated or shocked, making it incredibly powerful as an explosive.

Medicine

  • In small doses, it helps treat angina, a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
  • Doctor-prescribed nitroglycerin tablets can dissolve under the tongue for quick relief in heart-related emergencies.

Pop Culture

  • Nitroglycerin has appeared in many action movies and video games as a classic explosive element, accentuating excitement and danger.
  • Famous for its depiction in heist films where characters use it for breaking into secure vaults.

Psychology

  • The name itself can evoke feelings of danger or excitement, often associated with explosive scenarios in media.
  • People may develop a strong understanding of its dual applications, leading to diverse feelings about safety and thrill.

Translations

Translations of the word "nitroglycerin" in other languages:

🇵🇹 nitroglicerina

🇮🇳 नाइट्रोग्लिसरीन

🇩🇪 Nitroglycerin

🇮🇩 nitrogliserin

🇺🇦 нітрогліцерин

🇵🇱 nitrogliceryna

🇯🇵 ニトログリセリン

🇫🇷 nitroglycérine

🇪🇸 nitroglicerina

🇹🇷 nitrogliserin

🇰🇷 니트로글리세린

🇸🇦 نتروجليسرين

🇨🇿 nitroglycerin

🇸🇰 nitroglycerín

🇨🇳 硝化甘油

🇸🇮 nitroglicerin

🇮🇸 nitroglycerín

🇰🇿 нитроглицерин

🇬🇪 ნიტროგლიცერინი

🇦🇿 nitroqliserin

🇲🇽 nitroglicerina

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,803, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.