destructive distillation

noun

: decomposition of a substance (such as wood, coal, or oil) by heat in a closed container and collection of the volatile products produced

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1831, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of destructive distillation was circa 1831

Dictionary Entries Near destructive distillation

Cite this Entry

“Destructive distillation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/destructive%20distillation. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

destructive distillation

noun
: the breakup of a substance (as coal, oil, or wood) by heat in a closed container and collection of the volatile products produced
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