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kerosene
[a coined word based on Gk. kēros wax + -ene]
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.
n.
a distillant of petroleum, used for heating, illumination, and various other purposes.
This term was coined by Dr. Abraham Gesner, 1797-1864, of Halifax, N.S., who developed a process for distilling kerosene from the coal-like mineral albertite.
Quotations
1852
[Headline] The Kerosene Gas.
1854
The product is kerosene, the lightest of which is called A kerosene, and the two succeeding parts B and C kerosene.
1865
If Kerosene has any such destructive effect on trees it would be well for those in the habit of using it indiscriminately to bear the fact in mind.
1912
"Well, I noticed the kerosene demijohn wasn't very hefty the last time I filled the can."
1965
They killed deer constantly for themselves and their dogs, and for fat to supplement kerosene and willow-twig fuel for their heating lamps.