Turpentine is a colorless or yellowish liquid that has a strong odor and is highly flammable. It is used chiefly in making such chemical products as disinfectants, insecticides, medicines, and perfumes and in making synthetic rubber. It can be used as a solvent (substance that dissolves another substance) to remove tar, adhesives, and some paint stains. Some turpentine is used in the processing and flavoring of certain foods.