Bromopicrin

/ˌbroʊmoʊˈpɪkrɪn/ noun

Definition

A tear gas and chemical weapon that contains bromine and is used to irritate eyes and skin, similar to but more severe than regular tear gas.

Etymology

From bromo- (bromine) + picrin (from picric acid, derived from Greek 'pikros' meaning bitter). This compound was synthesized by adding bromine to picric acid or related compounds.

Kelly Says

Bromopicrin is one of the riot control agents that made history—it was developed as chemical warfare during World War I and is so irritating that even mentioning its effects makes people tear up!

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