anthranilic acid

noun

an·thra·nil·ic acid ˌan(t)-thrə-ˈni-lik-

: a crystalline acid NH₂C₆H₄COOH used as an intermediate in the manufacture of dyes (such as indigo), pharmaceuticals, and perfumes

Examples of anthranilic 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.

The blue fluorescence, seen only when the worms are under ultraviolet light, comes from anthranilic acid, an organic compound produced inside little granules that line the worm’s intestine. —

Christopher Crockett, Scientific American, 2 Aug. 2013 The drop in pH amplifies the anthranilic acid’s natural fluorescence, generating a blue flash that follows the calcium wave. —

Christopher Crockett, Scientific American, 2 Aug. 2013 This initial investigation led them to the discovery that the anthranilic acid fluoresces and the calcium wave triggers the event. —

Christopher Crockett, Scientific American, 2 Aug. 2013

Word History

Etymology

anthranil- borrowed from German anthranil- (in Anthranilsäure "anthranilic acid," from anthra- —in Anthracen anthracene— + Anilin aniline) + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of anthranilic acid was in 1842

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Anthranilic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anthranilic%20acid. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Copy Citation