: a colorless pungent flammable gaseous or volatile liquid C2H5Cl used especially as a topical anesthetic
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebChloroethane, also known as ethyl chloride, is used as a solvent, refrigerant and local anesthetic, the IFS said in a statement. Mike Morris, Houston Chronicle, 30 Mar. 2018
Word History
First Known Use
1860, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
ethyl chloride
noun
: a colorless pungent flammable gaseous or volatile liquid C2H5Cl used especially as a topical anesthetic