What is "guanidine"

Guanidine \Gua"ni*dine\, n. (Physiol. Chem.) A strongly alkaline base, NH2.CNH.NH2, formed by the oxidation of guanin, and also obtained combined with methyl in the decomposition of creatin. Boiled with dilute sulphuric acid, it yields urea and ammonia.

n. (context organic compound English) A strong base HN=C(NH₂)₂ obtained by the oxidation of guanine

Guanidine is the compound with the formula HNC(NH). It is a colourless solid that dissolves in polar solvents. It is a strong base that is used in the production of plastics and explosives. It is found in urine as a normal product of protein metabolism. Guanidine is the functional group on the side chain of arginine.