Chem. [f. ACET(IC) + Gr. -ωνη female descendant; see -ONE.] A colorless limpid liquid related to acetic acid, but containing less oxygen; pyro-acetic spirit. It is the acetic member of the ketones, or ketone of the acetic series, and is also called Dimethyl ketone, CO(CH3)2.
1858. Thudichum, The Urine, 314. Acetone is a colourless thin liquid.
1873. Williamson, Chem., 289. Acetone is a neutral liquid of an agreeable odour.
1875. Ure, Dict. Arts, I. 15, s.v. Acetimetry, The acetate of silver gives no acetone; whilst those of the alkaline earths yield chiefly acetone or marsh gas.
1876. trans. Wagner’s Gen. Pathol., 577. Acetone … is produced according to some in the stomach and intestines, according to others in the liver and thence is carried into the blood.
1877. Fownes, Man. Chem., II. 261. Acetone is very inflammable and burns with a bright flame.
