Medical Term:
cyanide
Pronunciation: sī′an-īd
Definition:
- The radical –CN or ion (CN)−. The ion is extremely poisonous, forming hydrocyanic acid in water; has the odor of almond oil; inhibits proper metabolism of oxygen through disruption of respiratory proteins (cytochromes) at the cellular level.
- A salt of HCN or a cyano-containing molecule.
- Often used as a shortened term to describe cyanide gas.
