What is "propionitrile"

Nitrile \Ni"trile\ (? or ?), n. [See Nitro-.] (Chem.) Any one of a series of compounds bearing the cyanide radical ( -CN); particularly, one of those cyanides of alcohol radicals which, by boiling with acids or alkalies, produce a carboxyl acid, with the elimination of the nitrogen as ammonia.

Note: The nitriles are named with reference to the acids produced by their decomposition, thus, hydrocyanic acid is formic nitrile, methyl cyanide is acetonitrile (also acetic nitrile), and ethyl cyanide is propionitrile (from propionic acid).

n. (context organic compound English) The nitrile CH₃-CH₂-CN; ethyl cyanide

Propionitrile, also known as ethyl cyanide and propanenitrile, is an organic compound with the formula CHCHCN. It is a simple aliphatic nitrile. The compound is a colourless, water-soluble liquid. It is used as a solvent and a precursor to other organic compounds.