ferric

American  

[fer-ik] / ˈfɛr ɪk /

adjective

Chemistry.

1. of or containing iron, especially in the trivalent state.

---

ferric British  

/ ˈfɛrɪk /

adjective

1. of or containing iron in the trivalent state: ferric oxide ; designating an iron (III) compound

---

ferric Scientific  

/ fĕr′ĭk /

1. Containing iron, especially iron with a valence of 3.

2. Compare ferrous

---

Etymology

Origin of ferric

1790–1800; < Latin ferr ( um ) iron + -ic

---

Compare meaning

How does ferric compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• ferrous vs. ferric

---

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

ferric

The transformation from hydrated ferrous sulfates to ferric hydroxysulfate occurs only when temperatures exceed 100°C, far hotter than typical Martian surface conditions.

From Science Daily ● Mar. 10, 2026

As a precaution, however, we are monitoring the situation due to the use of ferric sulphate in some waste treatment works.

From BBC ● Sep. 7, 2021

In his soft, ferric voice, he said, “Oh.”

From The New Yorker ● Sep. 14, 2015

With spray bottles, they applied both cupric nitrate and ferric nitrate to the metal, then distributed and smoothed the sizzling liquid with mop-shaped brushes.

From New York Times ● Jul. 1, 2015

Impure limestones, frequently coloured or clouded with red, due to ferric oxide, are quarried on an extensive scale in eastern Tennessee, and are used for decorative purposes.

From North America by Israel C. (Cook) Russell

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

---

Related Words

• rigid
• steely

---