/eth"euh fon'/ , n. Chem.
a solid compound, C 2 H 6 ClO 3 P, used as a growth regulator to accelerate the ripening of tomatoes, citrus fruit, apples, and other crops.
[ 1970-75; as shortening of the chemical name 2-chloroethanephosphonic acid; see CHLORO-, ETHANE, PHOSPHO-, -ONIC ]