Pyroxylic spirit is a term used to describe a type of flammable liquid derived from the distillation of wood. The word is pronounced /paɪrəksɪlɪk ˈspɪrət/ and is spelled as it sounds. "Pyroxylic" is derived from the Greek words "pyr" meaning fire and "xylon" meaning wood. The term "spirit" is often used in chemistry to denote a volatile liquid, hence the use of "spirit" in the term. Overall, the spelling of "pyroxylic spirit" accurately reflects its origin and composition.
Methyl or wood alcohol.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
One of the products of the destructive distillation of wood; wood-naphtha.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term "pyroxylic spirit" is composed of two components: "pyroxylic" and "spirit".
The word "pyroxylic" is derived from the Greek word "pyr" meaning "fire" and the word "xylon" meaning "wood". It refers to a substance that is obtained by the destructive distillation or decomposition of wood through the application of heat. This process produces various volatile and flammable chemicals from wood, including methanol, acetic acid, and acetone.
The term "spirit" in this context refers to a volatile substance, usually a form of alcohol, that can be extracted or obtained through distillation or other chemical processes.
Therefore, "pyroxylic spirit" can be understood as a volatile and flammable substance obtained from the distillation or decomposition of wood through the application of heat.