Lexic.us

Definition of Litmus

1. Noun. A coloring material (obtained from lichens) that turns red in acid solutions and blue in alkaline solutions; used as a very rough acid-base indicator.

Definition of Litmus

1. n. A dyestuff extracted from certain lichens (Roccella tinctoria, Lecanora tartarea, etc.), as a blue amorphous mass which consists of a compound of the alkaline carbonates with certain coloring matters related to orcin and orcein.

Definition of Litmus

1. Noun. A dyestuff extracted from certain lichens, that changes color when exposed to pH levels greater than or less than certain critical levels. ¹

2. Noun. A simple test of acidity in a liquid using litmus, usually in the form of litmus paper. ¹

3. Noun. A simple test of any attribute; a litmus test. ¹

¹ Source: wiktionary.com

Definition of Litmus

1. a blue coloring matter [n -ES]

Medical Definition of Litmus

1. A dyestuff extracted from certain lichens (Roccella tinctoria, Lecanora tartarea, etc), as a blue amorphous mass which consists of a compound of the alkaline carbonates with certain colouring matters related to orcin and orcein. Litmus is used as a dye, and being turned red by acids and restored to its blue colour by alkalies, is a common indicator or test for acidity and alkalinity. Litmus paper, unsized paper saturated with blue or red litmus, used in testing for acids or alkalies. Origin: D. Lakmoes; lak lacker + moes a thick preparation of fruit, pap, prob. Akin to E. Meat: cf. G. Lackmus. See Lac a resinous substance. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998)

Lexicographical Neighbors of Litmus

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