benzoyl
|ben-zoyl|
/ˈbɛn.zɔɪl/
benzoyl group (C6H5CO-)
Etymology
'benzoyl' originates from Modern chemical formation combining 'benzoin' with the suffix '-yl' (used to denote a radical or group).
'benzoyl' was coined in the 19th century by organic chemists by attaching the radical-forming suffix '-yl' to 'benzoin' (a resin name ultimately from Arabic via Medieval Latin and French). 'Benzoin' itself came into European languages from Arabic 'lubān jāwī' through Medieval Latin 'benzoëum' and French 'benjoin', and was adapted into chemical terminology to name related derivatives; appending '-yl' produced 'benzoyl'.
Originally related to the resin name 'benzoin' (the substance), the term evolved to denote a specific acyl radical/group (C6H5CO-) and is now used both as a noun (the benzoyl group) and as a combining adjective in compound names.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a functional group or radical with formula C6H5CO· (derived from benzoic acid); the benzoyl group (often represented as C6H5CO- in compounds).
The benzoyl group is commonly found in many aromatic esters and amides.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to, containing, or derived from the benzoyl group (used as a combining form in compound names, e.g., benzoyl peroxide).
Benzoyl peroxide is an effective topical agent for acne treatment.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/07 12:51