Xylene, also known as xylene or dimethylbenzene, is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic sweet odor. It is an aromatic hydrocarbon mixture consisting mainly of the isomers ortho-, meta- and para-xylene.

In histology, xylene is used as a deparaffinizing agent and as an embedding medium for tissue specimens. It is used to remove kerosene wax from paraffin-embedded tissue sections before they are stained and examined microscopically. Xylene also helps to clarify the tissue sections and improves light transmission for better microscopic observation. In addition, xylene is used as a solvent for stains and resins.

Outside histology, xylene also finds use as a solvent in the paint, adhesive, printing and rubber industries, and as an intermediate in the manufacture of plastics and chemical compounds.