carbon-monoxide
UK[ˌkɑːbən məˈnɒksaɪd]US[ˌkɑːrbən məˈnɑːksaɪd]
n
A poisonous gas formed by the incomplete burning of carbon or carbon-containing fuels, especially in engines.
Morpheme Breakdown
carbon
mono
oxide
carbon
mono
one
oxide
Etymology
The term is a modern scientific compound, transparently constructed from its constituent chemical concepts. "Carbon" originates from the Latin for charcoal, the ancient source of the element. "Monoxide" combines the Greek prefix for "one" with "oxide," indicating a compound where one atom of oxygen is bonded to another element. Thus, "carbon-monoxide" literally denotes a molecule consisting of one atom of carbon and one atom of oxygen (CO). Its naming logic directly reflects its atomic composition, distinguishing it from carbon dioxide (CO₂), which contains two oxygen atoms.
Analysis
Structure: carbon + mono + oxide
carbon: From Latin carbo (coal, charcoal). Denotes the element carbon.
mono: From Greek monos (single, alone). A combining form meaning "one" or "single".
oxide: From French oxide, from oxy(gène) (oxygen) + (ac)ide (acid). Denotes a compound of oxygen with another element.
Examples
Faulty heating systems can lead to a dangerous buildup of carbon-monoxide in the home.
The clear warning sign of carbon-monoxide poisoning is a headache and nausea.
All homes should have a carbon-monoxide detector installed near sleeping areas.