maleic acid

noun

: a crystalline dicarboxylic acid C4H4O4 that is isomeric with fumaric acid and is used especially in organic synthesis

Word History

Etymology

French acide maléique, alteration of acide malique malic acid; from its formation by dehydration of malic acid

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of maleic acid was in 1838

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Cite this Entry

“Maleic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maleic%20acid. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

: a crystalline dicarboxylic acid C4H4O4 that is isomeric with fumaric acid and is used especially in organic synthesis

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