noun

• 1Chemistry
  Of or denoting the straight-chain pentyl radical —C₅H₁₁.

  ‘The powdered bark can also be treated with solvents, such as toluene, or amyl alcohol to extract the quinine.’

  More example sentences

  • ‘Once again, there's an impressive list of toxins found in these products that may include naptha, phenol, diglycol laurate, amyl acetate or nitrobenzene.’
  • ‘Ethanol was then replaced with amyl acetate in preparation for critical point drying with liquid carbon dioxide.’
  • ‘While nail polish remover or amyl acetate will remove polish, both may affect the vinyl.’
  • ‘The main component of the fragrance is amyl acetate (which is also the smell of nail polish remover).’

  1. 1.1informal
     short for amyl nitrite
     More example sentences

     • ‘Effective treatment was not available until Brunton introduced nitrate of amyl in 1867.’
     • ‘Wearing gasmasks with a small canister of amyl attached is really great for morale on the battlefield of love - but I digress.’
     • ‘The blurb makes it all sound far more titillating than it probably is, but they're right about the leather and amyl though.’