1. Plural of paraldehyde; a colorless, volatile liquid compound used as a sedative and hypnotic drug, or as a solvent in chemical processes.
Usage: chemistry; medicine; technical

Examples

• Paraldehydes were commonly prescribed in the early 20th century as a treatment for insomnia.
• The chemist stored several bottles of paraldehydes in the laboratory cabinet.
• Paraldehydes have a distinctive pungent odor that is easily recognizable.
• Modern medicine has largely replaced paraldehydes with safer, more effective sedatives.
• The pharmaceutical company discontinued production of paraldehydes due to declining demand.