Pronunciation: [ˈɔːtən] (IPA) 
The word "autan" is spelled as /o.tɑ̃/. The first sound in "autan" is the open-mid back rounded vowel sound /o/. The second sound is the voiceless alveolar stop consonant /t/. The third sound is the open-mid front nasal vowel sound /ɑ̃/. This French word refers to a strong, dry wind that blows in the South of France. The spelling of "autan" reflects the French language's use of nasal vowels and the unique sound of the wind itself.
Autan is a noun that refers to an insect repellent widely used in tropical regions. Originally created in the 1950s, autan is specifically formulated to protect individuals from mosquito bites and other pesky insects. The word is commonly used in regions such as Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Autan typically comes in the form of a spray or lotion that is directly applied to the skin. Its primary purpose is to create a barrier between the individual and mosquitoes, preventing the insects from landing on and biting the skin. The active ingredients in autan are usually a combination of chemicals, such as DEET (n,n-diethyl-meta-toluamide), picaridin, or IR3535, which are proven to repel insects effectively.
The use of autan is particularly important in regions where mosquitoes and other insects are carriers of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, or Zika virus. By effectively repelling insects, autan helps to decrease the risk of individuals contracting these potentially life-threatening illnesses.
Autan has become a staple product for travelers visiting areas with high mosquito populations and is often recommended by health professionals and travel agencies. It is advised to use autan according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer, as excessive or improper application may reduce its effectiveness.
Trade name for a preparation said to be a mixture of barium peroxide, 66, and paraform 34 parts; used in solution for sterilization and disinfection.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "autan" is derived from the Occitan language, which is a Romance language spoken in Southern France, Monaco, and some parts of Italy and Spain. In Occitan, "autan" refers to a warm wind that blows from the southeast. The term originated from the Latin word "autānus", which also denoted the southeast wind. The Latin term, in turn, is derived from "Aura Austēnās", meaning "eastern breeze" or "eastern wind". Over time, "autan" became incorporated into the French language, still maintaining its original meaning of a southeast wind.
