boric acid

American  

noun

1. Also called orthoboric acid.  Chemistry, Pharmacology. a white, crystalline acid, H 3 BO 3 , occurring in nature or prepared from borax: used chiefly in the manufacture of ceramics, cements, glass, and enamels, for fireproofing, and in medicine in aqueous solution as a mild antiseptic.

2. Chemistry. any of a group of acids containing boron.

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boric acid British  

noun

1. Systematic name: trioxoboric(III) acid.  Also called: orthoboric acid.  a white soluble weakly acid crystalline solid used in the manufacture of heat-resistant glass and porcelain enamels, as a fireproofing material, and as a mild antiseptic. Formula: H 3 BO 3

2. any other acid containing boron

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boric acid Scientific  

/ bôr′ĭk /

1. A white or colorless crystalline compound that occurs naturally or is produced artificially from borax. It is used as an antiseptic and preservative, and in cements, enamels, and cosmetics. Chemical formula: H ₃ BO ₃ .

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Etymology

Origin of boric acid

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Some baits contain over 5% boric acid, but this concentration is too high and will kill the ants before they have a chance to return to the nest.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 29, 2024

The research team found that similar to the tetrapod and lobe-finned fish Aqp10s, Aqp10.1 in ray-finned fishes also transport water, glycerol, urea, and boric acid.

From Science Daily • Dec. 21, 2023

However, Aqp10.2b in pufferfishes allows only the passage of water and glycerol and not urea and boric acid.

From Science Daily • Dec. 21, 2023

Borax and the related boric acid are commonly used in household products including laundry cleaning products, wood preservers, fertilisers, contact lens solution and ant killers.

From Salon • Jul. 26, 2023

I wash my eyes three times a day with the boric acid powder.

From "Angela's Ashes: A Memoir" by Frank McCourt