saccharin

[ sak-er-in ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a white, crystalline, slightly water-soluble powder, C 7 H 5 NO 3 S, produced synthetically, which in dilute solution is 500 times as sweet as sugar: its soluble sodium salt is used as a noncaloric sugar substitute in the manufacture of syrups, foods, and beverages.

saccharin

/ ˈsækərɪn /

noun

1. a very sweet white crystalline slightly soluble powder used as a nonfattening sweetener. Formula: C 7 H 5 NO 3 S

saccharin

/ săk′ər-ĭn /

1. A white, crystalline powder used as a calorie-free sweetener. It tastes about 500 times sweeter than sugar. Saccharin is made from a compound of toluene, which is derived from petroleum. Chemical formula: C 7 H 5 NO 3 S.

Other Words From

• non·saccha·rin adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of saccharin¹

First recorded in 1875–80; sacchar- + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of saccharin¹

C19: from saccharo- + -in

Example Sentences

A purple or violet coloration proves the presence of salicylic acid, which in turn indicates the presence of saccharin.

From Project Gutenberg

Salicylic acid, benzoic acid, and saccharin are used to preserve fruits.

From Project Gutenberg

Saccharin possesses some antiseptic properties, but its main use is as a sweetener.

From Project Gutenberg

If a bright cherry-red color forms where the two liquids meet, either benzoic acid or saccharin is present.

From Project Gutenberg

The saccharin will have been converted into salicylic acid, which may be identified by the usual test for that acid.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• carbohydrate