citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˈsi-trik- How to pronounce citric acid (audio)
: a tricarboxylic acid C6H8O7 occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used chiefly as a flavoring

Examples of citric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But there are less toxic options — citric acid, lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide and alcohol — that kill bacteria and viruses just as effectively as QACs, experts say. — Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 11 Aug. 2026 Key Takeaways Lemon water may reduce the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones due to its citrate content, a form of citric acid. — Md Published, Verywell Health, 10 Aug. 2026 This variation may occur because citric acid inhibits bubble coalescence, similar to the additives in Diet Coke. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 5 Aug. 2026 Deep-clean and descale a moka pot several times a year with vinegar or citric acid. — Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for citric acid

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of citric acid was in 1790

Rhymes for citric acid

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citreous
citric acid
citric acid cycle
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Cite this Entry

“Citric acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/citric%20acid. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

citric acid

noun
cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- How to pronounce citric acid (audio)
: a pleasantly sour-tasting organic acid obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by the chemical breakdown of sugars and used as a flavoring

Medical Definition

citric acid

noun
cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- How to pronounce citric acid (audio)
: a sour organic acid C6H8O7 occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used as a flavoring

More from Merriam-Webster on citric acid

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about citric acid

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