butyric acid
noun Chemistry.
either of two isomeric acids having the formula C4H8O2, especially a rancid liquid occurring chiefly in spoiled butter, whose esters are used as flavorings.
Also called
butanoic acid.
Origin of butyric acid
First recorded in 1820–30
Words nearby butyric acid
butyraceous,
butyral,
butyraldehyde,
butyrate,
butyric,
butyric acid,
butyrin,
butyroid,
butyrophenone,
butyryl,
butyryl group
British Dictionary definitions for butyric acid
butyric acid
/ (bjuːˈtɪrɪk) /
noun
a carboxylic acid existing in two isomeric forms, one of which produces the smell in rancid butter. Its esters are used in flavouring. Formula: C 3 (CH 2) 2 COOH
Word Origin for butyric acid
C19
butyric, from Latin
būtyrum
butter
Medical definitions for butyric acid
butyric acid
[ byōō-tîr′ĭk ]
n.
Either of two colorless isomeric acids occurring in animal milk fats and used in disinfectants, emulsifying agents, and pharmaceuticals.
butanoic acid
Scientific definitions for butyric acid
butyric acid
[ byōō-tîr′ĭk ]
Either of two colorless fatty acids found in butter and certain plant oils. It has an unpleasant odor and is used in emulsifying agents, disinfectants and drugs. Chemical formula: C4H8O2.