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

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

This powder is highly abrasive, using oxalic acid to remove rust, tarnish, mineral deposits, and stains from most materials. —Camryn Rabideau, Peoplemag, 14 July 2023

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