Definition for O-LE-FI'ANT

O-LE-FI'ANT, a. [L. oleo, olfacio.]

Olefiant gas is a compound of two equivalents of carbon, and two of hydrogen. It was discovered in 1796. It is colorless, tasteless, and combustible. Olefiant gas, is so called from its property of forming with chlorin a compound resembling oil.

Return to page 22 of the letter “O”.