Phenyl, also known as phenyl group or phenyl ring, is a chemical compound characterized by a six-carbon aromatic ring with five carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen atoms and one carbon atom bonded to another functional group or atom. It is often represented as "Ph" in chemical formulas.

This aromatic ring is highly stable due to resonance, making phenyl a common structural component in many organic compounds. It's frequently found in various aromatic compounds such as benzene, toluene, and phenol.

Phenyl groups can have different substituents attached to the carbon atom, altering their chemical properties and applications. For example, substituting hydrogen atoms with functional groups like methyl (-CH3) or halogens (-Cl, -Br, -F) can lead to compounds with diverse uses in pharmaceuticals, fragrances, pesticides, and materials science.

Due to its aromatic nature, phenyl compounds often exhibit distinct aromatic properties such as pleasant odor and stability, which make them useful in perfumery and flavoring industries. Additionally, their stability and reactivity make them valuable intermediates in organic synthesis, allowing for the production of various complex molecules.