maleic acid

noun

ma·​le·​ic acid mə-ˈlē-ik- 

-ˈlā-

: a crystalline dicarboxylic acid C₄H₄O₄ that is isomeric with fumaric acid and is used especially in organic synthesis

Word History

Etymology

French acide maléique, alteration of acide malique malic acid; from its formation by dehydration of malic acid

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

maleic acid

noun

ma·​le·​ic acid mə-ˌlē-ik-  -ˌlā- 

: a crystalline dicarboxylic acid C₄H₄O₄ that is isomeric with fumaric acid and is used especially in organic synthesis