citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˈsi-trik- 

: a tricarboxylic acid C₆H₈O₇ occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used chiefly as a flavoring

Examples of citric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These are usually things like sugar, glycerol, and citric acid that are meant to help boost flavor and mouthfeel. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 25 July 2025

There’s a subtle bitter aftertaste, a hint of plastic that’s best squashed with a chaser—another belt, and another, until the citric acid numbs your tongue and the sugar numbs your senses. —Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 19 July 2025

Tone’s deodorants are aluminum-free and key ingredients in the new body wash include glycerin and citric acid. —Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 5 July 2025

This leave-in treatment is powered by citric acid and a concentrated bond-building care complex to strengthen weak bonds, moisturize, smooth, protect against heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and stave off color fading. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 26 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for citric acid

• antacid
• placid

Kids Definition

citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- 

: a pleasantly sour-tasting organic acid obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by the chemical breakdown of sugars and used as a flavoring

Medical Definition

citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- 

: a sour organic acid C₆H₈O₇ occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used as a flavoring