1. to treat wood with a solution of mercuric chloride to prevent decay
Usage: technical; archaic

Examples

• The shipbuilders decided to kyanise the timber before construction.
• Railway companies often kyanised wooden ties to extend their lifespan.
• The process to kyanise lumber was developed in the 19th century.
• Workers would kyanise fence posts to protect them from rot.
• The cost to kyanise the wood made the project more expensive.