butyric acid

noun

Chemistry.

1. either of two isomeric acids having the formula C 4 H 8 O 2 , especially a rancid liquid occurring chiefly in spoiled butter, whose esters are used as flavorings.

butyric acid

/ bjuːˈtɪrɪk /

noun

1. a carboxylic acid existing in two isomeric forms, one of which produces the smell in rancid butter. Its esters are used in flavouring. Formula: C 3 (CH 2 ) 2 COOH

butyric acid

1. Either of two colorless fatty acids found in butter and certain plant oils. It has an unpleasant odor and is used in emulsifying agents, disinfectants and drugs. Chemical formula: C ₄ H ₈ O ₂ .

Word History and Origins

Origin of butyric acid¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Word History and Origins

Origin of butyric acid¹

C19 butyric , from Latin būtyrum _butter