TEAR GAS Meaning and
Definition
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Tear gas refers to a chemical compound, often in the form of a powder or liquid, which is employed by law enforcement and military personnel as a means of crowd control or riot suppression. Also known as riot-control agents or lachrymatory agents, tear gas is designed to irritate the eyes, respiratory system, and skin of individuals within its vicinity, inducing severe discomfort and involuntary tearing.
The main purpose behind the deployment of tear gas is to disperse large groups of people, mitigating potential threats to public safety or order. Once a tear gas canister is activated, it releases a chemical substance, such as CS gas or pepper spray, that quickly vaporizes, dispersing irritant particles into the air in the form of small droplets. Upon inhalation or direct contact, these particles cause immediate irritation, leading to strong and involuntary tear production, coughing, difficulty breathing, and a burning sensation on the skin.
It is crucial to note that tear gas is intended to be non-lethal; however, its use can still pose risks, particularly if deployed improperly or in excessive amounts. Certain individuals, such as those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, may be more susceptible to its effects. Additionally, tear gas should never be used to intentionally harm or inflict lasting damage on individuals.
Tear gas has become an integral tool in modern crowd control techniques, although concerns about its potential long-term health effects and impact on human rights have sparked ongoing debates regarding its usage and regulation.
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Acetone, benzene bromide, xylol, a gas used in warfare which causes irritation of the conjunctiva and profuse lacrymation; called also lacrymator.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TEAR GAS
- rear gas
- fear gas
- gear gas
- year gas
- 6ear gas
- 5ear gas
- twar gas
- tsar gas
- tdar gas
- trar gas
- t4ar gas
- t3ar gas
- tezr gas
- tesr gas
- tewr gas
- teqr gas
- teae gas
- tear ghas
- tear gass
Etymology of TEAR GAS
The word "tear gas" has a straightforward etymology. It combines the nouns "tear" and "gas".
1. Tear: The word "tear" originally comes from the Old English word "tear", meaning a drop of clear liquid secreted in the eye while crying. It is akin to the Old High German word "zahar" and the Old Norse word "tár". The term "tear" in tear gas refers to the effect tear gas has on a person, causing them to produce tears due to its irritant properties.
2. Gas: The word "gas" traces its roots back to the late 17th century and stems from the Greek word "khaos", meaning "empty space" or "gap". It was adopted in English to describe a substance in a gaseous state.
Similar spelling words for TEAR GAS
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