| a white, crystalline, slightly water-soluble powder, C7H6O2, usually derived from benzoin or other balsams, or synthesized from phthalic acid or toluene: used chiefly as a preservative, in the synthesis of dyes, and in medicine as a germicide. |
ben·zo·ic acid  (běn-zō'ĭk)  n. An aromatic white crystalline acid, C7H6O2, used as a food preservative and in dentifrices, germicides, and the manufacturing and processing of dyes. [From benzoin.] |
benzoic acid ben·zo·ic acid (běn-zō'ĭk)
n.
An aromatic white crystalline acid used to season tobacco and in perfumes, dentifrices, and germicides.
| benzoic acid (běn-zō'ĭk) Pronunciation Key
A white, crystalline acid used in preserving food, as a cosmetic, and in medicine. Benzoic acid consists of a benzene ring with a carboxyl group (COOH) attached. It occurs naturally in some plants. Chemical formula: C7H6O2. |
benzoic acid
a white, crystalline organic compound belonging to the family of carboxylic acids, widely used as a food preservative and in the manufacture of various cosmetics, dyes, plastics, and insect repellents.
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