3-methylindole
|3-meth-yl-in-dole|
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/ˌθriː ˌmɛθəl ˈɪndoʊl/
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/ˌθriː ˌmɛθəl ˈɪndəʊl/
methyl-substituted indole (skatole); fecal-odor compound
Etymology
'3-methylindole' originates from Modern English, specifically the combination of the words 'methyl' and 'indole', where 'methyl' meant 'a methyl group (CH3)' and 'indole' meant 'an indole ring (a bicyclic aromatic heterocycle)'.
'3-methylindole' developed as a systematic chemical name using the locant '3-' for position, 'methyl' (from New Latin/Greek roots used in chemical nomenclature) and 'indole' (a name coined in the 19th century from 'indigo' derivatives); this combination produced the modern IUPAC-style name '3-methylindole'.
Initially the elements of the name referred separately to 'methyl' and 'indole'; over time the combined term came to denote the single, specific compound now known as 3-methylindole (skatole), with its associated odors and uses.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a specific organic compound (IUPAC name: 3-methylindole), an indole ring substituted with a methyl group at the 3-position; commonly known as skatole.
3-methylindole is often called skatole and has a characteristic odor.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a malodorous substance found in feces and certain animal secretions; responsible for a strong fecal smell.
Trace amounts of 3-methylindole can cause a pronounced fecal odor in samples.
Synonyms
Noun 3
a chemical intermediate and, at very low concentrations, a component used in perfumery to impart complex floral notes.
In perfumery, minute amounts of 3-methylindole can add depth to floral accords.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/17 07:55