The common name of an alcohol is derived from the common name of the alkyl group, with the word “alcohol” added. For example, CH₃OH is called methyl alcohol.

Ethers are classified as simple or symmetrical if the attached alkyl or aryl groups are the same, and mixed or unsymmetrical if the groups are different. Diethyl ether is an example of a symmetrical ether, while C₂H₅OCH₃ is an example ...

In primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols, the –OH group is attached to primary, secondary, and tertiary carbon atoms, respectively, in the alkyl group.

Alcohols and phenols are classified as mono–, di–, tri-, or polyhydric compounds based on whether they contain one, two, three, or many hydroxyl groups, respectively.

Ethers are formed by the substitution of a hydrogen atom in a hydrocarbon by an alkoxy or aryloxy group (R–O/Ar–O).