Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
resorcinol

resorcinol

1 9.9
A chemical used to make dyes and in creams and shampoos for skin problems
  • noun
  • /ˌrɛzərˈsɪnɒl/
  • Specialized
: resorcinol
  • The dermatologist prescribed a cream containing resorcinol to treat stubborn acne on her face.

Examples

  • Many dandruff shampoos list resorcinol as an active ingredient because of its antifungal properties.

  • Chemists often use resorcinol as a starting material in the synthesis of azo dyes.

  • The chemist used resorcinol to create a new dye.

  • Many shampoos contain resorcinol for its medicinal properties.

  • Many skincare products use resorcinol for its ability to unclog pores.

  • The dermatologist recommended a lotion that contains resorcinol to treat acne.

  • In cosmetics, resorcinol is often included for its dyeing and antibacterial properties.

Surface Forms

resorcinol singular
resorcinols plural

Morphology

resorcinol = resorcin + ol

The element 'resorcin' is a specialized combining form (not a standalone English word) and the '-ol' suffix is a technical chemical marker, so an average learner cannot derive the meaning from the parts.

Etymology

Resorcinol breaks into resorcin + -ol, and a helpful way to remember this is that resorcin sounds like 'resin', the sticky plant material once used to make many dyes, while -ol marks a chemical 'alcohol' type group. So, resorcinol is a small chemical linked to natural resins that today is used in dyes and in some medical creams and shampoos.