sulfonic
|sul-fo-nic|
C1
🇺🇸
/sʌlˈfɑː.nɪk/
🇬🇧
/sʌlˈfɒn.ɪk/
pertaining to the sulfonic group
Etymology
Etymology Information
'sulfonic' originates from 'sulfonic acid', which is derived from 'sulfur', ultimately from Latin 'sulphur', meaning 'brimstone'. The suffix '-ic' denotes 'pertaining to'.
Historical Evolution
'sulfonic' was formed in the 19th century as chemistry advanced, from 'sulfonic acid', itself from 'sulfur' and the suffix '-ic'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'pertaining to sulfonic acid or the sulfonic group', and this meaning has remained unchanged in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or containing the sulfonic group —SO₃H.
Sulfonic acids are important in the production of detergents.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/06 04:46