Chem. [f. ALD(EHYDE) + (ALCOH)OL; see -OL.] A clear viscid neutral liquid of composition CH3 . CH(OH) . CH2 . CHO, polymerous with acetyl aldehyde; so called because regarded by Wurz as intermediate in constitution and properties between aldehyde and alcohol; previously called acraldehyde.
1874. Watts, Dict. Chem., 2nd Supp. 38. Aldol possesses the reducing powers of the aldehydes. Ibid. (1878), 3rd Supp. 54. Aldol … is the aldehyde of butene-glycol.
