pyroligneous acid

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a yellowish, acidic, water-soluble liquid, containing about 10 percent acetic acid, obtained by the destructive distillation of wood: used for smoking meats.

pyroligneous acid

noun

1. the crude reddish-brown acidic liquid obtained by the distillation of wood and containing acetic acid, methanol, and acetone Also calledwood vinegar

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyroligneous acid¹

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

Confectioners use pyroligneous acid instead of lemon-juice, and there is no objection to it in small quantities.

From Project Gutenberg

The Taylor process (experiment No. 21) used a solution of sulphide of calcium in pyroligneous acid.

From Project Gutenberg

Before reaching the exhaustor, however, they pass through a cooler in which a quantity of tar and pyroligneous acid is collected.

From Project Gutenberg

When wood is slowly burned, it gives off acetic and pyroligneous acid, which in combination with water or moisture form creosote.

From Project Gutenberg

This may be done by causing the animal to inhale the fumes of pyroligneous acid, and by the internal use of bayberry bark.

From Project Gutenberg