chloroform /klôr″əfôrm′/ [Gk, chloros + L, formica, ant] , 1. a nonflammable volatile liquid that was the first liquid inhalation anesthetic to be discovered. (Nitrous oxide was the first gaseous inhalation anesthetic agent discovered.) Chloroform has a low margin of safety and significant toxicity. The drug is not used in the United States. 2. a solvent that is hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic if ingested.
