1. substances that evaporate readily at normal temperatures and pressures
Usage: chemistry; technical

Examples

• The laboratory equipment was designed to capture volatiles during the experiment.
• Volatiles from the paint can cause headaches in poorly ventilated areas.
• The scientist measured the concentration of volatiles in the air sample.
• Many cleaning products contain volatiles that should not be inhaled.
• The wine’s aroma comes from volatiles released during fermentation.
• Industrial processes often emit volatiles into the atmosphere.