citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˈsi-trik- 

: a tricarboxylic acid C₆H₈O₇ occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used chiefly as a flavoring

Examples of citric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some bartenders try to honor the original three-ingredient recipe and pile on the grapefruit juice, making a whiskey greyhound with too much sweetness, while others either reduce the fruit component to almost nothing or else add acidity with lemons or powdered citric acid. —Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 10 Aug. 2024

Let the creamy treatment sit for 20 minutes, then rinse it off for an instant brightening boost thanks to a 25% AHA blend of tartaric, lactic, and citric acids mixed with chickpea flour. —Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 4 Oct. 2024

Blackstrap molasses is used in animal feed and the industrial production of vinegar, citric acid, and other products.20 Molasses is also used to make ethanol, a type of biofuel, which is a renewable energy source. —Johna Burdeos, Health, 17 Sep. 2024

Its slightly vinegar-like flavor is due to its acetic, tartaric, and citric acid content.11 Some people also add their favorite fruits or herbs to the mixture to personalize their beverage. —Allison Herries, Verywell Health, 18 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- 

: a pleasantly sour-tasting organic acid obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by the chemical breakdown of sugars and used as a flavoring

Medical Definition

citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- 

: a sour organic acid C₆H₈O₇ occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used as a flavoring