formic acid

noun

for·​mic acid ˈfȯr-mik- 

: a colorless pungent fuming vesicant liquid acid CH₂O₂ found especially in ants and in many plants and used chiefly in dyeing and finishing textiles

Examples of formic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As a form of defense against predators, the yellow crazy ants release a burst of formic acid which can blind anyone on their trail. —Scott Travers, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024

However, methanol becomes formaldehyde—a cancer-causing chemical used in industrial glues and embalming corpses—and formate, or formic acid, which is a strong and toxic acid. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024

The heat from cooking has the same effect on the starch as the formic acid. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 21 Nov. 2024

The scientists experimented with formic acid, a molecule that ants generate as venom against predators. —IEEE Spectrum, 3 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

irregular from Latin formica ant — more at pismire

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

formic acid

noun

for·​mic acid ˌfȯr-mik- 

: a colorless strong-smelling acid that irritates the skin, is found in insects (as ants) and in many plants, and is used chiefly in dyeing and finishing woven fabrics

Medical Definition

formic acid

noun

: a colorless pungent fuming vesicant liquid acid CH₂O₂ found especially in ants and in many plants and used chiefly in dyeing and finishing textiles