oxalic acid

noun

ox·​al·​ic acid (ˌ)äk-ˈsa-lik- 

: a poisonous strong acid (COOH)₂ or H₂C₂O₄ that occurs in various plants (such as spinach) as oxalates and is used especially as a bleaching or cleaning agent and as a chemical intermediate

Examples of oxalic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Your typical can of BKF contains oxalic acid, and a few other abrasives and surfactants that soften grease and remove calcium, lime and other alkaline build-up. —Emily Farris, Bon Appétit, 3 Dec. 2024

For stubborn stains, try using an oxalic acid cleaner following the manufacturer's instructions. —Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 July 2024

Doing so reduces oxalic acid, a compound that can inhibit the absorption of minerals. —Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 16 Apr. 2024

The decline of oxalic acid is a common biomarker associated with sleep loss. —Jack Tamisiea, Scientific American, 25 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French (acide) oxalique, from Latin oxalis

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

oxalic acid

noun

ox·​al·​ic acid (ˌ)äk-ˌsal-ik- 

: a poisonous strong acid (COOH)₂ or H₂C₂O₄ that occurs in various plants as oxalates and is used especially as a bleaching or cleaning agent and as a chemical intermediate