GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   mannitol (?), n. [Mannite + -ol.]
   1. (Chem.) A white crystalline hexose (HO.CH2.(CHOH)4.CH2.OH) of a sweet taste obtained from a so-called manna, the dried sap of the flowering ash (Fraxinus ornus); -- called also mannite, and hydroxy hexane.  Cf. Dulcite.  It is used in pharmacy as excipient and diluent for solids and liquids.  It is also used as a food additive for anti-caking properties, or as a sweetener, and, illegally, to "cut" (dilute) illegal drugs such as cocaine or heroin.
   Syn. -- D-mannitol; manna sugar; cordycepic acid; Diosmol; Mannicol; Mannidex; Osmiktrol; Osmosal.
   
   [1913 Webster +PJC]