C₆H₄(CH₃)₂ Any one of the family of isomeric, colorless aromatic hydrocarbon liquids, produced by the destructive distillation of coal or by the catalytic reforming of petroleum naphthenic fractions; used for high-octane and aviation gasolines, solvents, chemical intermediates, and the manufacture of polyester resins. Also known as dimethylbenzene; xylol.