fluorocarbon (technically chlorofluoromethane) Organic compound that is produced by replacing the hydrogen atoms of hydrocarbons with fluorine atoms. Their inertness, low toxicity, and ability to withstand high temperatures, make them ideal for use in plastics, such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethene) or Teflon. Many of these chemicals also contain chlorine and are called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

fluor·o·car·bon / ˌfloŏrōˈkärbən; ˌflôrō-/ • n. Chem. a compound formed by replacing one or more of the hydrogen atoms in a hydrocarbon with fluorine atoms.