ester

[ es-ter ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a compound produced by the reaction between an acid and an alcohol with the elimination of a molecule of water, as ethyl acetate, C 4 H 8 O 2 , or dimethyl sulfate, C 2 H 6 SO 4 .

ester

/ ˈɛstə /

noun

1. chem any of a class of compounds produced by reaction between acids and alcohols with the elimination of water. Esters with low molecular weights, such as ethyl acetate, are usually volatile fragrant liquids; fats are solid esters

ester

/ ĕs′tər /

1. An organic compound formed when an acid and an alcohol combine and release water. Esters formed from carboxylic acids are the most common, and have the general formula RCOOR|||PRIMARY_STRESS|||, where R and R|||PRIMARY_STRESS||| are organic radicals. Esters formed from simple hydrocarbon groups are colorless, volatile liquids with pleasant aromas and create the fragrances and flavors of many flowers and fruits. They are also used as food flavorings. Larger esters, formed from long-chain carboxylic acids, commonly occur as animal and vegetable fats, oils, and waxes. Esters have a wide range of uses in industry.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ester¹

First recorded in 1850–55; coined by L. Gmelin (1788–1853), German chemist

Word History and Origins

Origin of ester¹

C19: from German, probably a contraction of Essigäther acetic ether, from Essig vinegar (ultimately from Latin acētum ) + Äther ether

Example Sentences

Once the water is cleared, chemical groups called NHS esters embedded in the polyacrylic acid form strong bonds with proteins at the tissue surface.

From Science Daily

Subsequently, they assessed the properties of these esters using in vitro cell line studies.

From Science Daily

In particular, glycerol derived fatty acid esters may have led to vesicles with different tolerances to metal ions, temperatures, and pH -- a critical step in diversifying evolution.

From Science Daily

"There are five fruit esters, or aroma compounds, which are very typical for Heineken, and we know which ones to bring back," says Mr van Waesberghe.

From BBC

"Policy options to reduce exposure to organophosphate ester flame retardants should be considered."

From Science Daily