hydrofluoric acid

noun

1. a colorless, fuming, corrosive liquid, HF, an aqueous solution of hydrogen fluoride, used chiefly for etching glass.

hydrofluoric acid

/ ˌhaɪdrəʊfluːˈɒrɪk /

noun

1. the colourless aqueous solution of hydrogen fluoride: a strong acid that attacks glass

hydrofluoric acid

/ hī′drō-flr′ĭk,-flôr′- /

1. A colorless, fuming, aqueous solution of hydrogen fluoride. It is corrosive and is used to etch or polish glass, to clean certain metals before plating, and to clean masonry. It is very poisonous.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hydrofluoric acid¹

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

The emery and excess of hydrofluoric acid may then be thrown into a large beaker of clean water and washed several times.

From Project Gutenberg

In the arts, hydrofluoric acid is used for etching on glass.

From Project Gutenberg

Mixed with hydrochloric acid it may sometimes be used instead of hydrofluoric acid.

From Project Gutenberg

This is a white powder, which is insoluble in acids; even in hydrofluoric acid it is only slightly attacked.

From Project Gutenberg

Hydrofluoric acid is used for etching glass and opening up silicates.

From Project Gutenberg