Napalm
/ˈneɪ.pɑːm/noun
A highly flammable incendiary substance originally made from naphthenic and palmitic acids.
Did you know?The word was coined in 1942 by combining parts of naphthenic and palmitic acid, turning chemistry itself into a weaponized name.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
naphtha
“A naturally occurring flammable oil or bitumen-like substance”
19th Century
Latin/Scientific
naphtha + palmitic acid
“Industrial chemistry terms used to describe flammable petroleum derivatives and palm-derived fatty acids”
1942
English
napalm
“Coined name for a thickened incendiary gel made from naphthenic and palmitic acids”
Modern English
English
napalm
“An incendiary substance used in warfare”
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