quinone

noun

qui·​none kwi-ˈnōn How to pronounce quinone (audio)
ˈkwi-ˌnōn
1
: either of two isomeric cyclic crystalline compounds C6H4O2 that are derivatives of benzene
2
: any of various usually yellow, orange, or red quinonoid compounds including several that are biologically important as coenzymes, hydrogen acceptors, or vitamins

Examples of quinone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The push stems from an organic compound in tires called quinone that was newly identified by researchers at the University of Washington, said Birgit Hagedorn, a geochemist and longtime board member of the Anchorage Waterways Council. Anchorage Daily News, 26 Apr. 2021 The researchers identified a chemical called 6PPD, a common rubber additive aimed at making car tires last longer, that transforms into deadly 6PPD-quinone when unleashed in nature, reports Lynda V. Maps of the Seattle Times. Alex Fox, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 Dec. 2020

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary quinine + -one

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of quinone was in 1853

Dictionary Entries Near quinone

Cite this Entry

“Quinone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quinone. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

quinone

noun
1
: either of two isomeric cyclic crystalline compounds C6H4O2 that are extremely irritating to the skin and mucous membranes
2
: any of various usually yellow, orange, or red quinonoid compounds including several that are biologically important as coenzymes, hydrogen acceptors, or vitamins

More from Merriam-Webster on quinone

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!