acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) /as′ətəldē″hīd/ , 1. a colorless, volatile liquid aldehyde with a pungent odor produced by the oxidation of ethyl alcohol. It is used in the manufacture of acetic acid, perfumes, and flavors. It is irritating to membranes and has a general narcotic action. 2. an intermediate in the metabolism of alcohol.
