valerolactone

noun

va·​le·​ro·​lactone
və¦li(ˌ)rō,
¦valərō+
: the lactone C5H8O2 of any hydroxy derivative of valeric acid
especially : the γ-lactone found in pyroligneous acid, made synthetically, and used chiefly as a solvent

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary valer- + lactone

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near valerolactone

Cite this Entry

“Valerolactone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/valerolactone. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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