butyric acid

noun

: either of two isomeric fatty acids C4H8O2
especially : the straight-chain acid of unpleasant odor normally found in perspiration and rancid butter

Examples of butyric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Common SCFAs include acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid. Johna Burdeos, Health, 20 Oct. 2024 SCFAs, such as acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid, support digestive health by fueling the cells lining the colon, regulating inflammation, and strengthening your gut barrier. Jillian Kubala, Health, 1 Oct. 2024 Ghee also contains butyric acid, another short-chain fatty acid that protects intestinal cells from tumors. Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 20 June 2024 Incorporated with a release agent, this supplement guarantees solubility and optimal absorption, while minimizing the strong odor and taste commonly associated with butyric acid. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 11 June 2023 Butter also contains short-chain fatty acids like butyric acid that have benefits for gut health and potentially weight management, Sharp says. USA TODAY, 28 May 2023 Under aerobic conditions, in Nairobi for example, paracresol and indole reached concentrations of 89 and 65 μg/g, respectively, which, along with short chain fatty acids such as butyric acid (13 mg/g) explained the strong rancid, manure and farm yard odor. Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 1 May 2014 Byproducts associated with rot, such as propionic acid and butyric acid, can leave feet smelling like rancid cabbage. Jason Tetro, Discover Magazine, 24 Mar. 2016 These microbes normally generate substances that help maintain the gut lining, including short-chain fatty acids such as butyric acid. Katrin Legg, Scientific American, 24 June 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of butyric acid was in 1826

Dictionary Entries Near butyric acid

Cite this Entry

“Butyric acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/butyric%20acid. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

butyric acid

noun
bu·​tyr·​ic acid
byü-ˌtir-ik-
: an acid with an unpleasant odor found in sweat and spoiling butter

Medical Definition

butyric acid

noun
: either of two isomeric fatty acids C4H8O2:
a
: a normal acid of unpleasant odor found in rancid butter and in perspiration

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