butyric acid

American  

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 British  

/ 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 Scientific  

/ byo̅o̅-tîr′ĭk /

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 .

---

Etymology

Origin of butyric acid

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

butyric acid

Females produce seeds with an outer fleshy layer that contains butyric acid, the signature scent of human vomit.

From National Geographic ● Oct. 4, 2023

The esters formed from butyric acid are pleasant-smelling compounds found in fruits and used in perfumes.

From Textbooks ● Feb. 14, 2019

Talk then turned to the possible use of butyric acid, which can damage skin and eyes.

From Washington Post ● Jan. 24, 2017

An eyeless tick’s includes not just the smell of butyric acid, which wafts from mammalian skin, but the years-long wait for a moment of succulent opportunity.

From The New Yorker ● May 23, 2016

It is an oil, possessing a smell like that of butyric acid.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 7, Slice 7 "Crocoite" to "Cuba" by Various