How Do You Spell LITMUS?

Pronunciation: [lˈɪtməs] (IPA)

The word "litmus" is commonly used in chemistry to describe a type of pH indicator that changes color as the acidity or basicity of a solution is altered. The spelling of this word, IPA phonetic transcription [ˈlɪtməs], can be confusing because the final "-us" is not pronounced as it is in many Latin derived words. Instead, the final syllable is pronounced with a short "ə" sound, and the consonant "t" is pronounced as a voiceless dental fricative "θ".

LITMUS Meaning and Definition

1. Litmus is a term commonly used to refer to a chemical compound, specifically a natural dye obtained from lichens. It is primarily used as a pH indicator, capable of exhibiting different colors in acidic and alkaline environments. Litmus is available in various forms, such as litmus paper or litmus solution, and is extensively utilized in laboratories and industries for detecting the acidity or basicity of substances.

   When exposed to an acidic solution, litmus typically turns red, indicating a low pH value. In contrast, in an alkaline solution, it turns blue or purple, indicating a high pH value. This property is attributed to the presence of red and blue pigments in the compound, which undergo reversible chemical reactions in response to changes in the hydrogen ion concentration.

   The concept of litmus is also often metaphorically used to describe a situation, event, or experience that serves as a definitive test or indicator of something. In this context, it implies a critical turning point or a decisive factor that determines the outcome of a given situation, much like litmus paper determines the pH level of a substance.

   In summary, litmus is a versatile substance employed for evaluating the acidity or basicity of solutions. Its ability to undergo color changes based on the pH level makes it an essential tool in scientific analysis. Additionally, its use as a figurative term embodies the idea of a significant indicator or pivotal moment.

2. Lacmus, a blue coloring matter obtained from Roccella tinctoria and other species of lichens; it is reddened by acids and turned blue again by alkalies.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. A purple colouring matter prepared from certain lichens.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for LITMUS

• limus
• lioms
• litium
• limts
• itmes
• litmuz
• lithmus
• lettus
• litles
• litmous
• lstmus
• lymus
• liatrus
• limum
• littmus
• Laamus
• letous
• lithuo
• litiui
• litiu
• Litues
• mitimus
• clitius
• uitmu
• lytms
• mitcus
• Litiue
• ligmun
• Litouse
• Rytmus
• Litimous
• Litimos
• Lituas
• Lituss
• Lintmus
• Littmuss
• Lyttmus
• Cliteus
• Lintous

Etymology of LITMUS

The word "litmus" has its roots in medieval Latin and Swedish languages. It is derived from the Old Norse word "litmosi", which literally means "colored moss". The word "litmosi" was formed by combining "litr" meaning "color" and "mosi" meaning "moss". In medieval Latin, the word transformed into "litmōsum", which eventually led to the modern English term "litmus".

Idioms with the word LITMUS

• a litmus test The idiom "a litmus test" refers to a method or criterion used to evaluate or determine someone's loyalty, beliefs, qualifications, or suitability for a particular position or situation. It typically involves a decisive or revealing test that helps assess someone's true character or stance on an issue.
• litmus test The idiom "litmus test" refers to a situation or criteria used to determine the true nature, quality, or stance of something or someone. It typically involves a crucial or decisive test that reveals their underlying beliefs, attitudes, principles, or loyalty.