boric acid

noun

1. Also called orthoboric acid. Chemistry, Pharmacology. a white, crystalline acid, H 3 BO 3 , occurring in nature or prepared from borax: used chiefly in the manufacture of ceramics, cements, glass, and enamels, for fireproofing, and in medicine in aqueous solution as a mild antiseptic.
2. Chemistry. any of a group of acids containing boron.

boric acid

noun

1. Also calledorthoboric acid a white soluble weakly acid crystalline solid used in the manufacture of heat-resistant glass and porcelain enamels, as a fireproofing material, and as a mild antiseptic. Formula: H 3 BO 3 Systematic nametrioxoboric(III) acid
2. any other acid containing boron

boric acid

/ bôr′ĭk /

1. A white or colorless crystalline compound that occurs naturally or is produced artificially from borax. It is used as an antiseptic and preservative, and in cements, enamels, and cosmetics. Chemical formula: H 3 BO 3 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of boric acid¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Some baits contain over 5% boric acid, but this concentration is too high and will kill the ants before they have a chance to return to the nest.

From Seattle Times

In summary, this study highlights that water, glycerol, urea, and boric acid transport activities are plesiomorphic activities of Aqp10 characteristic of the ancestral type common to the studied species.

From Science Daily

Borax and the related boric acid are commonly used in household products including laundry cleaning products, wood preservers, fertilisers, contact lens solution and ant killers.

From Salon

Sugar bait with a toxicant, such as boric acid, typically works well, as many of the ant species that enter homes are sweet-loving ants.

From Seattle Times

The standard slime recipe — which dates back to the 1940s, when an engineer dropped boric acid into silicone oil — almost always starts with glue.

From Washington Post