[′meth·əl ′prō·pē·ə‚nāt] (organic chemistry) CH3CH2COOCH3 A flammable, colorless liquid with a boiling range of 78.0-79.5°C; soluble in most organic solvents; used as a solvent for cellulose nitrate, in lacquers, varnishes, and paints, and for flavoring.