nitrobenzene Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a poisonous oily water-soluble liquid used as a solvent and in the manufacture of aniline

Nitro- + benzene.

(Chem.) A yellow aromatic liquid (C6H5.NO2), produced by the action of nitric acid on benzene, and called from its odor imitation oil of bitter almonds, or essence of mirbane. It is used in perfumery, and is manufactured in large quantities in the preparation of aniline. Fornerly called also nitrobenzol.