peroxide
Meaning
a chemical compound containing two oxygen atoms bonded together, especially hydrogen peroxide used as a bleach or disinfectant.
to bleach (hair) with hydrogen peroxide.
Structure
Usage
she used peroxide to disinfect the minor cut.
many hair dyes contain peroxide to lighten the hair color.
the chemist explained the unstable nature of organic peroxides.
Etymology
the word "peroxide" is a modern chemical term formed in the early 19th century. it combines the latin prefix "per-," denoting a high or maximum degree, with "oxide," a term for a compound of oxygen. the logic is that a peroxide contains a higher proportion of oxygen relative to a standard oxide, specifically featuring an oxygen-oxygen single bond. thus, the name literally signifies a compound that is "thoroughly" or "highly" oxidized, reflecting its distinct chemical structure compared to simpler oxides.
Analysis
- per (latin): a prefix meaning "thoroughly," "completely," or "to a high degree." - oxide (french, from modern latin): a compound of oxygen with another element or radical.