amphoteric

[ am-fuh-ter-ik ]
/ ˌæm fəˈtɛr ɪk /

adjective Chemistry.

capable of functioning either as an acid or as a base.

Origin of amphoteric

1840–50; < Greek amphóter(os) (comparative of ámphō both; cognate with Latin ambō) + -ic

Example sentences from the Web for amphoteric

British Dictionary definitions for amphoteric

amphoteric
/ (ˌæmfəˈtɛrɪk) /

adjective

chem able to function as either a base or an acid Also: amphiprotic

Word Origin for amphoteric

C19: from Greek amphoteros each of two (from amphō both) + -ic

Medical definitions for amphoteric

amphoteric
[ ăm′fə-tĕrĭk ]

adj.

Having the capacity to react as either an acid or a base.

Scientific definitions for amphoteric

amphoteric
[ ăm′fə-tĕrĭk ]

Capable of reacting chemically as either an acid or a base. Water, ammonia, and the hydroxides of certain metals are amphoteric.