acetic anhydride

noun

: a colorless liquid C4H6O3 with a pungent odor used in organic synthesis (as of cellulose acetate and aspirin)

Examples of acetic anhydride in a Sentence

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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.
As aforementioned, it is produced by combining Delta-8 THC with acetic anhydride. — Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 17 Oct. 2022 It can be synthesized through a chemical process using acetic anhydride, a high-inflammable and colorless liquid used to make fibers, plastics, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and explosives. — Dario Sabaghi, Forbes, 18 Jan. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of acetic anhydride was in 1855

Rhymes for acetic anhydride

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Browse Nearby Words

acetic aldehyde
acetic anhydride
acetic ester
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Cite this Entry

“Acetic anhydride.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acetic%20anhydride. Accessed 30 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

acetic anhydride

noun
: a colorless liquid (CH3CO)2O with a pungent odor and lacrimatory and vesicant action that is used especially in making acetyl derivatives (as aspirin)

More from Merriam-Webster on acetic anhydride

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about acetic anhydride

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