creosote

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a colorless or yellowish oily liquid obtained by distillation of wood tar; used as an antiseptic
  2. noun a dark oily liquid obtained by distillation of coal tar; used as a preservative for wood
  3. verb treat with creosote

Etymology

From German Kreosot in 1935, coined in 1832 by German natural philosopher Carl Ludwig, Baron Reichenbach, from Ancient Greek κρέας (kréas, “flesh”) + σωτήρ (sōtḗr, “preserver”) for its use as an antiseptic and meat-preservative. Creosote-bush named after its scent. By surface analysis, creo- + -sote.

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