maleic acid

[ muh-lee-ik ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a colorless, crystalline, water-soluble solid, C 4 H 4 O 4 , isomeric with fumaric acid, having an astringent, repulsive taste and faint acidulous odor: used in the manufacture of synthetic resins, the dyeing and finishing of textiles, and as a preservative for fats and oils.

maleic acid

/ məˈleɪɪk /

noun

1. a colourless soluble crystalline substance used to synthesize other compounds. Formula: HOOCCH:CHCOOH Systematic namecis-butanedioic acid

maleic acid

/ mə-lē′ĭk /

1. A colorless crystalline acid used in textile processing and as an oil and fat preservative. Maleic acid is a geometric isomer of fumaric acid, having two carboxyl groups (COOH) on the same side of an ethylene chain. Chemical formula: C 4 H 4 O 4 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of maleic acid¹

1870–75; < French maléique, alteration of malique malic

Word History and Origins

Origin of maleic acid¹

C19: from French maléique, altered form of malique; see malic acid

Example Sentences

The styrene–maleic acid copolymer: a versatile tool in membrane research.

From Nature

Consuming high levels of maleic acid can cause kidney damage.

From BBC

Singapore's Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority has recalled 11 types of tapioca starch balls made in Taiwan that are used in popular 'bubble teas', after they were found to contain maleic acid.

From BBC