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nitrile

nitrile / nitrile
Noun
pl: nitriles

In industrial and medical contexts, this term usually refers to the synthetic rubber used for disposable gloves. It is preferred over latex in environments where chemical resistance is required or where users have latex allergies. In a chemical context, it describes a specific functional group. Because it is a technical classification of organic compounds, it is treated as an uncountable mass noun when referring to the chemical property or a countable noun when referring to a specific molecule.

Meanings

Nounnitrile

A synthetic rubber copolymer made from acrylonitrile and butadiene, known for its resistance to oil and chemicals.

"The technician wore nitrile gloves to protect against hazardous solvents."

Nounnitrile

Any organic compound containing a cyano group consisting of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom.

"The synthesis of the pharmaceutical intermediate required the use of a specific nitrile."

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Last Updated: June 18, 2026Report an Error