chemicals

chem-i-cals · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Substances produced by or used in chemical processes; compounds used in manufacturing, research, or other applications.

  2. 2.

    Synthetic or artificial substances, especially those perceived as harmful.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    toxic chemicals — poisonous or harmful substances
  • •
    industrial chemicals — substances used in manufacturing processes
  • •
    brain chemicals — neurotransmitters and other substances in the brain

Related words

See also: chemical, chemistry, compound, substance
Synonyms: compounds, reagents, substances

Etymology

Plural of chemical, from Medieval Latin chimicus, ultimately from Arabic al-kīmiyā ("alchemy").