Definition: methylene

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Source: WordNet (r) 1.7 

methylene
     n : the bivalent radical CH2 derived from methane [syn: methylene
         group, methylene radical]

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) 

Methylene \Meth"yl*ene\, n. [F. m['e]thyl[`e]ne, from Gr. ? wine
   + ? wood; -- a word coined to correspond to the name wood
   spirit.] (Chem.)
   A hydrocarbon radical, CH2, not known in the free state,
   but regarded as an essential residue and component of certain
   derivatives of methane; as, methylene bromide, CH2Br2; --
   formerly called also methene.

   Methylene blue (Chem.), an artificial dyestuff consisting
      of a complex sulphur derivative of diphenyl amine; --
      called also pure blue.