perfluorooctanoate

noun

per·​fluo·​ro·​oc·​ta·​no·​ate pər-ˌflȯr-ō-ˌäk-tə-ˈnō-ət 

-ˌflu̇r-,

-ˌāt

: a fluorinated carboxylic acid C₈HF₁₅O₂ that is a member of the PFAS group and that has been used especially for its water and stain resistance (as in carpeting and upholstery), as a surfactant (as in firefighting foam), as a coating for nonstick cookware, and as an emulsifier in the synthesis of fluorinated polymers : PFOA, perfluorooctanoic acid

The older these pans get, the more likely they are to release harmful toxins, such as perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) which can affect brain health.

—Michele O'Connor

Word History

Etymology

perfluorooctano(ic acid) + -ate entry 1

First Known Use

1981, in the meaning defined above