Xylenol refers to a group of chemical compounds derived from phenol that contain two methyl groups attached to a benzene ring. There are several isomers of xylenol, including ortho-xylenol, meta-xylenol, and para-xylenol, each differing in the position of the methyl groups. Xylenols are primarily used in the production of resins, plastics, and as solvents in various industrial applications. In addition to their industrial uses, xylenols have antibacterial properties and are sometimes utilized in disinfectants and antiseptics. They can also be found in some laboratory settings for chemical synthesis. However, exposure to xylenols can be harmful, necessitating proper safety measures during handling.