organophosphorusadj.
/ɔːˌɡanəʊˈfɒsf(ə)rəs/, /ˌɔːɡənəʊˈfɒsf(ə)rəs/, /ˌɔːɡn̩əʊˈfɒsf(ə)rəs/, U.S. /ɔrˌɡænoʊˈfɑsf(ə)rəs/ Chemistry.
attributive. Denoting organic compounds whose molecules contain one or more phosphorus atoms, esp. organophosphate pesticides.
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the world > matter > chemistry > organic chemistry > organic radicals > [adjective] > radical compounds
hydrocyanic1819
organo-zinc1855
organo-mercury1860
organo-lead1861
organo-tin1866
organo-magnesium1901
organo-lithium1932
organo-silicon1941
organophosphorus1950
organophosphorous1958
1950 G. M. Kosolapoff Organophosphorus Compounds i. 7 In many classes of organophosphorus compounds we find mixtures that are inseparable by fractional distillation.
1962 Brit. Birds 55 431 Certain organophosphorus sprays were used on Brussels sprouts.
1971 Homes & Gardens Aug. 89/3 A servicing company can apply a long-lasting organo-phosphorus insecticide to pendant fittings.
1993 Guardian 10 Dec. ii. 17/5 Any admission that OP dips are dangerous would also throw a question mark over the much bigger market for organophosphorus pesticides widely sprayed on crops.
This entry has been updated (OED Third Edition, September 2004; most recently modified version published online March 2022).
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adj.1950