METHYLATED SPIRIT Meaning and
Definition
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Methylated spirit, also known as denatured alcohol, is a type of alcohol that has been rendered unsuitable for consumption by the addition of specific chemicals. It is most commonly derived from ethyl alcohol or ethanol, which is a colorless liquid produced by the fermentation of sugars. The purpose of methylating or denaturing ethyl alcohol is to make it toxic or unpalatable to deter its consumption as an intoxicating beverage.
The process of methylating alcohol involves blending ethanol with a small amount of chemicals such as methanol, isopropyl alcohol, or acetone. These substances alter the properties of the alcohol, making it poisonous or causing unpleasant taste and odor that discourage human consumption. The term "methylated spirit" is derived from the addition of methanol during the denaturation process.
Methylated spirit finds various applications due to its flammable and solvent properties. It is commonly used as a fuel for small lamps, stoves, or burners, especially in camping or outdoor settings. Additionally, it serves as a cleaning or degreasing agent, particularly in the areas of laboratory equipment, electronics, and metal surfaces. However, its toxic nature renders it unsuitable for direct contact with the skin or consumption.
In summary, methylated spirit refers to ethyl alcohol that has been chemically altered through the addition of certain substances to make it poisonous or unpalatable for human consumption. It is widely utilized as a fuel source and solvent but should be handled with caution due to its toxic properties.
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Denatured alcohol, ethyl alcohol containing one-ninth its volume of wood alcohol.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Spirit of wine or alcohol mixed with one-tenth of its volume of naphtha or wood-spirit to prevent its consumption as a beverage, admitted duty free for use in manufactures.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for METHYLATED SPIRIT
- nethylated spirit
- kethylated spirit
- jethylated spirit
- mwthylated spirit
- msthylated spirit
- mdthylated spirit
- mrthylated spirit
- m4thylated spirit
- m3thylated spirit
- merhylated spirit
- mefhylated spirit
- meghylated spirit
- meyhylated spirit
- me6hylated spirit
- me5hylated spirit
- metgylated spirit
- metbylated spirit
- metnylated spirit
- metjylated spirit
Etymology of METHYLATED SPIRIT
The word "methylated" is derived from the term "methyl", which refers to a chemical group consisting of one carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms (CH3-). The term "spirit" in this context refers to a volatile liquid substance.
The term "methylated spirit" was coined in the late 19th century and was initially used to refer to ethanol (alcohol) that has been denatured or made undrinkable by the addition of methanol and other substances. This denaturation process makes the ethanol poisonous and unpalatable to discourage its consumption as an alcoholic beverage.
The use of the term "methylated spirit" specifically refers to the addition of methanol to ethanol, which gives it its name. However, the composition of denatured alcohols may vary depending on the intended purpose or regional regulations.
Similar spelling word for METHYLATED SPIRIT
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