[¦sim ¦te·trə¦klȯr·ō′eth‚ān] (organic chemistry) CHCl2CHCl2 A colorless, corrosive, toxic liquid with a chloroform scent, soluble in alcohol and ether, slightly soluble in water, boils at 147°C; used as a solvent, metal cleaner, paint remover, and weed killer.