lactic

adjective

lac·​tic ˈlak-tik 

1

a

: of or relating to milk

b

: obtained from sour milk or whey

2

: involving the production of lactic acid

Examples of lactic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The formula also features alpha hydroxy acids—lactic and glycolic acids—and squalane and niacinamide to hydrate and calm the skin. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 13 Dec. 2024

The mixture thickens as the lactose in the milk ferments into lactic acid.2 Due to its acidity, plain yogurt has a slightly tangy flavor. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 29 Oct. 2024

This light, serum-like formula is spiked with a 5% blend of mandelic, lactic, and polyhydroxy acids to gently exfoliate dead skin and pore-clogging oil. —Sarah Madaus, Allure, 4 Oct. 2024

What to Know About Foot Peels and Masks Ingredients: For exfoliation, look for alpha-hydroxy acids like lactic, glycolic, mandelic, citric, and malic acids. —Daley Quinn Published, Health, 6 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing lactic

• lactic acid

Medical Definition

lactic

adjective

lac·​tic ˈlak-tik 

1

a

: of or relating to milk

b

: obtained from sour milk or whey

2

: involving the production of lactic acid

lactic fermentation