phthalate

noun

phthal·​ate ˈtha-ˌlāt How to pronounce phthalate (audio)
: any of various salts or esters of phthalic acid used especially as plasticizers and in solvents

Examples of phthalate 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.
It’s also formulated without potentially irritating ingredients like phthalates, parabens and mineral oil. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026 Ensure the product is free from harsh ingredients, such as ammonia, petroleum, phosphates, phthalates, and parabens, and meets the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice Standard. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 31 July 2026 It’s made with food-grade stainless steel that is both BPA and phthalate free, and also features a leakproof lid that easily glides back and forth to open or close. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 July 2026 All of their yoga mats are free of dyes, toxic chemicals and phthalates. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 14 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for phthalate

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phthalate was in 1863

Phrases Containing phthalate

Rhymes for phthalate

See All Rhymes for phthalate

Browse Nearby Words

phthalanilic acid
phthalate
phthalazine
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Phthalate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phthalate. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

phthalate

noun
phthal·​ate ˈthal-ˌāt How to pronounce phthalate (audio)
: a salt or ester of phthalic acid
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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