Cacodylic (kækəʊˈdɪlɪk) is a complex chemical term that describes a particular type of organic compound. The word is derived from the Greek words kakos, meaning "bad," and odous, meaning "smell," which aptly describes its characteristic odor. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word breaks it down into its constituent syllables: ka-koh-dil-ik. Because of its specialized usage, cacodylic is not a common word in everyday language. However, it remains an important term in the world of organic chemistry and scientific research.
Cacodylic is an adjective that refers to something that is characterized by or relating to a noxious or foul odor or taste. The term is derived from the Greek words "kakos," meaning bad or foul, and "odes," meaning smell or scent.
In a more specific sense, cacodylic is often used to describe the compound known as cacodylic acid (CH3)2AsOOH. This compound is a colorless liquid that emits a strong, penetrating odor resembling that of garlic or rotten fish. Cacodylic acid is highly toxic and has been commonly used as an herbicide and pesticide in the past.
When referring to a substance or odor as cacodylic, it often implies an unpleasant or offensive nature. Cacodylic substances can be found naturally in certain plants and organisms, but they are typically associated with unpleasant or hazardous qualities.
The term cacodylic can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is morally offensive, corrupt, or morally repugnant. This usage suggests that the thing being described carries negative connotations or qualities that are morally depraved.
Overall, cacodylic is an adjective that describes something that possesses a repugnant odor or taste, or more generally, refers to something that is morally repulsive or offensive.
Relating to cacodyl, noting especially cacodylic acid, dimethylarsenic acid, prepared by treating cacodyl and cacodyl oxide with mercuric oxide; occurs in the form of odorless soluble prismatic crystals, and forms cacodylates with various bases, which are employed in skin diseases, tuberculosis, malaria, and other affections in the place of arsenical preparations.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "cacodylic" is derived from the Greek word "kakódēs" (κακώδης), which means "bad-smelling" or "foul-smelling". The word was coined in the early 19th century to specifically describe a compound known as cacodyl, which has a strong, garlic-like odor. The suffix "-ic" is added to form the adjective "cacodylic".