1. Plural of methanal; the simplest aldehyde compound, commonly known as formaldehyde, used in disinfectants, preservatives, and industrial processes.
Usage: chemistry; technical term

Examples

• Methanals are widely used in the production of resins and plastics.
• The laboratory stored several containers of methanals for preservation purposes.
• Methanals have antimicrobial properties that make them useful as disinfectants.
• Industrial facilities must handle methanals with proper safety equipment.
• The concentration of methanals in the solution was carefully measured.