Oxygen

n. [Fr. oxigène, oxygène, Sp. oxígeno, It. ossigeno, from Gr. ὀξύς, sharp, acid, and γενεῖν, γίνεσθαι, γίγνεσθαι, to bring forth, to generate; — so called because originally supposed to be an essential part of every acid.]

1Sense 1. (Chem.) A gaseous element, destitute, in its ordinary condition, of taste, color, and smell, possessing strong chemical affinities. Its combination with bodies, when rapid, produces combustion, and in slower form, oxidation. It serves to support life, and, though heavier than air, forms about twenty-two per cent. of the atmosphere. By composition with hydrogen, it forms water. In certain conditions, it is peculiarly active, and possesses both odor and taste, and is then known as ozone.

2Sense 2. Bleaching powder; — a manufacturing term.