valeric acid


noun Chemistry.

any of several isomeric organic acids having the formula C5H10O2, the common one being a liquid of pungent odor obtained from valerian roots: used chiefly as an intermediate in perfumery.

Origin of valeric acid

First recorded in 1855–60

British Dictionary definitions for valeric acid

valeric acid

noun

another name for pentanoic acid

Scientific definitions for valeric acid

valeric acid
[ və-lîrĭk, -lĕr- ]

A colorless, liquid organic acid that occurs in four isomeric forms and has a disagreeable odor. It occurs naturally in oils from certain marine animals and plants, and is used in flavorings, perfumes, plasticizers, and pharmaceuticals. Chemical formula: C5H10O2.