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butyric acid
noun
: either of two isomeric fatty acids C4H8O2
especially
: the straight-chain acid of unpleasant odor normally found in perspiration and rancid butter
Examples of butyric acid in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Common SCFAs include acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid.
—Johna Burdeos, Health, 20 Oct. 2024
SCFAs, such as acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid, support digestive health by fueling the cells lining the colon, regulating inflammation, and strengthening your gut barrier.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 1 Oct. 2024
Ghee also contains butyric acid, another short-chain fatty acid that protects intestinal cells from tumors.
—Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 20 June 2024
Incorporated with a release agent, this supplement guarantees solubility and optimal absorption, while minimizing the strong odor and taste commonly associated with butyric acid.
—Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 11 June 2023
Butter also contains short-chain fatty acids like butyric acid that have benefits for gut health and potentially weight management, Sharp says.
—USA TODAY, 28 May 2023
Under aerobic conditions, in Nairobi for example, paracresol and indole reached concentrations of 89 and 65 μg/g, respectively, which, along with short chain fatty acids such as butyric acid (13 mg/g) explained the strong rancid, manure and farm yard odor.
—Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 1 May 2014
Byproducts associated with rot, such as propionic acid and butyric acid, can leave feet smelling like rancid cabbage.
—Jason Tetro, Discover Magazine, 24 Mar. 2016
These microbes normally generate substances that help maintain the gut lining, including short-chain fatty acids such as butyric acid.
—Katrin Legg, Scientific American, 24 June 2021
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Word History
First Known Use
1826, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near butyric acid
Cite this Entry
“Butyric acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/butyric%20acid. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
butyric acid
noun
bu·tyr·ic acid
byü-ˌtir-ik-
: an acid with an unpleasant odor found in sweat and spoiling butter
Medical Definition
butyric acid
noun
: either of two isomeric fatty acids C4H8O2:
a
: a normal acid of unpleasant odor found in rancid butter and in perspiration
b
More from Merriam-Webster on butyric acid
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about butyric acid
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