carboxylic acid

noun

: an organic acid (such as acetic acid) containing one or more carboxyl groups

Examples of carboxylic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In some instances, both aldehyde and carboxylic acid molecules are present. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Nov. 2024 In yellow feathers, the chains ended with a different molecule called carboxylic acid. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of carboxylic acid was in 1868

Dictionary Entries Near carboxylic acid

Cite this Entry

“Carboxylic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carboxylic%20acid. Accessed 25 Jan. 2025.

Medical Definition

carboxylic acid

noun
: an organic acid (as an acetic acid) containing one or more carboxyl groups

More from Merriam-Webster on carboxylic acid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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