formalin n 1: a 10% solution of formaldehyde in water; used as a disinfectant or to preserve biological specimens [syn: {formalin}, {formol}]
Formalin \For"ma*lin\, n. [Formic + aldehyde + -in.] (Chem.) An aqueous solution of formaldehyde, used as a preservative in museums and as a disinfectant. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]