aliphatic

[ al-uh-fat-ik ]

adjective

, Chemistry.

1. pertaining to nonaromatic hydrocarbon compounds in which the constituent carbon atoms can be straight-chain, branched chain, or cyclic, as in alicyclic compounds; saturated, as in the paraffins; or unsaturated, as in the olefins and alkynes.

aliphatic

/ ˌælɪˈfætɪk /

adjective

1. (of an organic compound) not aromatic, esp having an open chain structure, such as alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes

aliphatic

/ ăl′ə-făt′ĭk /

1. Relating to organic compounds whose carbon atoms are linked in open chains, either straight or branched, rather than containing a benzene ring. Alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes are aliphatic compounds.
2. Compare aromatic

Word History and Origins

Origin of aliphatic¹

1885–90; < Greek aleiphat- (stem of áleiphar oil, fat) + -ic

Word History and Origins

Origin of aliphatic¹

C19: from Greek aleiphat-, aleiphar oil

Example Sentences

It has already been stated that benzene derivatives may be Distinctions between aliphatic and aromatic compounds.

From Project Gutenberg

These observations may be summarized by saying that the benzene nucleus is more negative in character than the aliphatic residues.

From Project Gutenberg

As before, only true ring nuclei, and not internal anhydrides of aliphatic compounds, will be mentioned.

From Project Gutenberg

The azo-group is particularly active, both the aliphatic and aromatic compounds being coloured.

From Project Gutenberg

They are compounds which greatly resemble the mixed ethers of the aliphatic series.

From Project Gutenberg