An unstandardized dye mixture of violet rosanilins: it is also used topically as an antiinfective. See crystal violet.
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gentian violet n, often cap G&V any of several dyes (as crystal violet) or dye mixtures that consist of one or more methyl derivatives of pararosaniline esp a dark green or greenish mixture used medicinally that contains not less than 96 percent of the derivative of pararosaniline containing six methyl groups in each molecule and is used esp. as a bactericide, fungicide, and anthelmintic
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1. a dye used for staining tissues and microorganisms for microscopical study.
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[USP] a dye occurring as a dark green powder or greenish glistening pieces having a metallic luster, with antibacterial, antifungal, and anthelmintic properties, applied topically in the treatment of infections of the skin and mucous membranes associated with gram-positive bacteria and molds, and also used to kill trypanosomes in blood collected in blood banks in areas endemic for Chagas disease. Called also crystal violet and methyl violet.Medical dictionary. 2011.