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Definition of xanthation

xanthation

/zænˈθeɪ.ʃən/
xan · tha · tion
Plural:xanthations
•
Adjective:xanthated
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xanthation Lexical Profile

xanthation Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The chemical process of treating a substance, typically cellulose, with an alkali and carbon disulfide to produce a xanthate, serving as a crucial intermediate step in the manufacture of viscose rayon and cellophane.

Example

"During the commercial production of rayon fibers, the xanthation of alkali cellulose allows the material to become soluble in water."

• Rhymes for xanthation

• Nearby Words

xalapa
xanax
xanten
xanthation
xanthism
xanthoceras
xanthochroia

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the chemical term 'xanthate' (from Greek 'xanthos' meaning 'yellow', referring to the yellow color of the formed salts) and the noun-forming suffix '-ion'. The term emerged in the late 19th century alongside the development of the viscose process for making rayon.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Xanthation. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/xanthation
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