Wood alcohol, also known as methyl alcohol or methanol, is a clear, colorless liquid that is commonly used as a solvent and fuel. It is highly flammable and toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Due to its dangerous properties, many alternative names have been used to refer to wood alcohol. These include carbinol, methyl hydrate, wood naphtha, and pyroxylic spirit. In addition to its industrial use, methyl alcohol is also sometimes used in illegal alcohol production. As such, it has gained another set of slang names such as wood shnapps, wood whiskey, and wood ether. Despite its many monikers, it is important to always handle this substance with extreme care and caution.