Meaning & use
nitrile
Last updated
Any of a class of organic compounds containing a carbon-nitrogen triple bond, especially the synthetic rubber made from such compounds and used in gloves and hoses.
See it in a sentence
Lab technicians wear nitrile gloves because they resist punctures and many chemicals better than latex.
Nitrile is synthesized by combining acrylonitrile with butadiene to create a durable, oil-resistant rubber.
A note on using this word
Nitrile gloves became a popular latex alternative largely because they don't trigger latex allergies.
Another way to use it
2. adjective
A synthetic rubber, made from acrylonitrile and butadiene, used to make gloves, seals, and hoses.
The mechanic pulled on a pair of nitrile gloves before touching the engine oil.
Make it your own
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