benzoic acid

noun

, Chemistry, Pharmacology.

1. a white, crystalline, slightly water-soluble powder, C 7 H 6 O 2 , usually derived from benzoin or other balsams, or synthesized from phthalic acid or toluene: used chiefly as a preservative, in the synthesis of dyes, and in medicine as a germicide.

benzoic acid

noun

1. a white crystalline solid occurring in many natural resins, used in the manufacture of benzoates, plasticizers, and dyes and as a food preservative ( E210 ). Formula: C 6 H 5 COOH Systematic namebenzenecarboxylic acid

benzoic acid

/ bĕn-zō′ĭk /

1. A white, crystalline acid used in preserving food, as a cosmetic, and in medicine. Benzoic acid consists of a benzene ring with a carboxyl group (COOH) attached. It occurs naturally in some plants. Chemical formula: C 7 H 6 O 2 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of benzoic acid¹

First recorded in 1785–95

Example Sentences

It was recalled due to an excessive amount of benzoic acid - a common preservative used in food and drinks.

From BBC

So they did all kinds of just really organic research and ended up settling on benzoic acid as the organic acid that was the most satisfying.

From The Verge

In addition to nicotine, Juul pods contain a mix of glycerol, propylene glycol, benzoic acid and flavoring agents, the long-term health effects of which have yet to be determined, she said.

From New York Times

Blending benzoic acid, a common food preservative, into e-cigarette nicotine liquids provided another advantage: a more direct path to the lungs, in which the stimulant is then propelled to the brain through the bloodstream.

From Reuters

The company cut the nicotine with benzoic acid to reduce irritation, making it more palatable.

From Salon