What is "xylylene"

Xylylene \Xy"lyl*ene\, n. (Chem.) Any one of three metameric radicals, CH2.C6H4.CH2, derived respectively from the three xylenes. Often used adjectively; as, xylylene alcohol.

n. (context chemistry English) quinomethane

Xylylene comprises two isomeric organic compounds with the formula CH(CH). These compounds are related to the corresponding quinones by replacement of the oxygen atoms by CH groups. ortho- and para-xylylene are best known, although neither is stable in solid or liquid form. Certain substituted derivatives of xylylenes are however highly stable, an example being tetracyanoquinodimethane.