phenolphthalein UK /ˌfiː.nɒlˈ(f)θa.liːn/US /ˌfi.nl̩ˈθæl.i.ɪn/ noun1 •A white or yellowish-white crystalline compound C₂₀H₁₄O₄ used in medicine as a laxative and in analysis as an indicator because its solution is brilliant red in alkalies and is decolorized by acids.After transfering the acid to a 150-mL Erlenmeyer flask, add 60 mL of deionized water and 2 drops of phenolphthalein. formsphenolphthaleins