butyric acid

noun

, Chemistry.

1. either of two isomeric acids having the formula C 4 H 8 O 2 , especially a rancid liquid occurring chiefly in spoiled butter, whose esters are used as flavorings.

butyric acid

/ bjuːˈtɪrɪk /

noun

1. a carboxylic acid existing in two isomeric forms, one of which produces the smell in rancid butter. Its esters are used in flavouring. Formula: C 3 (CH 2 ) 2 COOH

butyric acid

/ byo̅o̅-tîr′ĭk /

1. Either of two colorless fatty acids found in butter and certain plant oils. It has an unpleasant odor and is used in emulsifying agents, disinfectants and drugs. Chemical formula: C 4 H 8 O 2 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of butyric acid¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Word History and Origins

Origin of butyric acid¹

C19 butyric , from Latin būtyrum butter

Example Sentences

Butyric acid fermentations are more common in old butter and cheese.

From Project Gutenberg

He proved this very clearly for the lactic acid and butyric acid fermentations.

From Project Gutenberg

This compound combines with hydrocyanic acid to form a nitrile which hydrolyses to dichlor-hydroxy iso-butyric acid.

From Project Gutenberg

Stale beef and that cut from an old steer exhales a pungent odor of butyric acid.

From Project Gutenberg

Derivatives of butyric acid are present in butter and impart to it its characteristic flavor.

From Project Gutenberg