1. A class of organic compounds containing a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to a hydrogen atom and a carbon atom, typically formed by the oxidation of alcohols.
Usage: chemistry; plural form of aldehyde

Examples

• Formaldehyde and acetaldehyde are common aldehydes used in industry.
• The oxidation of primary alcohols produces aldehydes as intermediate products.
• Many aldehydes have distinctive odors and are used in fragrances and flavorings.
• Students learned to identify aldehydes using the Tollens test in chemistry lab.
• Aldehydes are more easily oxidized than ketones due to their structure.