ether

//ˈiːθər//
C1Frequency Level 12Technical
Visual representation of ether

Noun

etherSingular
ethersPlural
1

A volatile, highly flammable organic compound used as an anesthetic and solvent, with a characteristic sweet smell.

In the past, ether was commonly used as an anesthetic during surgeries.

2

Any of a class of organic compounds in which two hydrocarbon groups are linked by an oxygen atom.

Diethyl ether is a common solvent used in organic chemistry laboratories.

Noun

etherSingular
ethersPlural
1

The clear sky; the upper regions of air beyond the clouds.

The bird soared high into the ether, disappearing beyond the clouds.

2

A hypothetical medium formerly believed to permeate all space and transmit electromagnetic waves.

In the 19th century, scientists believed that light traveled through the ether.