any of three isomeric, colorless, oily liquids or solids with the formula CHCHOH, prepared by the fractional distillation of coal tar and used in the preparation of disinfectants, fumigating compounds, and dyestuffs
See cresol in American Heritage Dictionary 4
(krēˈsôlˌ, -sŏlˌ, -sōlˌ)
noun
Any of three isomeric phenols, CH3C6H4OH, used in resins and as a disinfectant.