benzoic acid


nounChemistry, Pharmacology.
  1. a white, crystalline, slightly water-soluble powder, C7H6O2, usually derived from benzoin or other balsams, or synthesized from phthalic acid or toluene: used chiefly as a preservative, in the synthesis of dyes, and in medicine as a germicide.

Origin of benzoic acid

1
First recorded in 1785–95

Words Nearby benzoic acid

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British Dictionary definitions for benzoic acid

benzoic acid

noun
  1. a white crystalline solid occurring in many natural resins, used in the manufacture of benzoates, plasticizers, and dyes and as a food preservative (E210). Formula: C 6 H 5 COOH: Systematic name: benzenecarboxylic acid

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Scientific definitions for benzoic acid

benzoic acid

[ bĕn-zōĭk ]


  1. A white, crystalline acid used in preserving food, as a cosmetic, and in medicine. Benzoic acid consists of a benzene ring with a carboxyl group (COOH) attached. It occurs naturally in some plants. Chemical formula: C7H6O2.

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