thapsic acid

noun

thap·​sic acid
ˈthapsik-
: a crystalline dicarboxylic acid HOOC(CH2)14COOH found in the roots of the deadly carrot and the wax of a juniper (Juniperus sabina); hexadecane-dioic acid

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Thapsia (genus name of the deadly carrot Thapsia garganica) + English -ic

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near thapsic acid

Cite this Entry

“Thapsic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thapsic%20acid. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!