Anisole

/ˈænɪsoʊl/ noun

Definition

A colorless liquid organic compound (methoxybenzene) with a mild aromatic odor, used in fragrances, pharmaceuticals, and chemical synthesis.

Etymology

From 'anise' + '-ole' (chemical suffix). Originally isolated from anise oil in the 1800s, the compound is now synthesized industrially from benzene.

Kelly Says

Anisole is everywhere in modern chemistry—it's in your perfume, in medicines, and even in the synthesis of other drugs, but you'd never guess it came from the same plant that flavors licorice!

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