acetyl

noun

ace·​tyl ə-ˈsē-tᵊl How to pronounce acetyl (audio) ˈa-sə- How to pronounce acetyl (audio)
ˈa-sə-ˌtēl
: the radical CH3CO− of acetic acid
often used in combination

Examples of acetyl 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.
This firming and contouring eye cream is packed with wrinkle-smoothing peptides—acetyl hexapeptide-8 and acetyl tetrapeptide-5—to visibly reduce puffiness and soften the appearance of crow’s feet. Christa Joanna Lee, Glamour, 23 July 2025 Key Ingredients: Copper peptides, acetyl octapeptide, pseudoalteromonas ferment extract Size: 0.5 fl. oz. Emily Orofino, Vogue, 6 May 2025 Some of those acetyl groups are turned back into acetyl-CoA and consumed for energy, while others are recycled to activate a different set of genes. Viviane Callier, Quanta Magazine, 21 Mar. 2025 The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office said the victim died of a fentanyl intoxication and acetyl fentanyl toxicity. Ishani Desai, Sacramento Bee, 12 Mar. 2025 Key ingredients: Icelandic glacial water, hyaluronic acid, peptides, acetyl hexapeptide-8, coenzyme Q10 | Fragrance-free: yes | Quantity: 5 sets Frequently Asked Questions What is a wrinkle patch? Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 6 Mar. 2025 Magnesium acetyl taurate: This type is rapidly absorbed by the body and may have cognitive health benefits, including preventing brain tissue damage and reducing anxiety.1112 Capsule supplements may make the most sense if used for preventive purposes. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 27 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Acetyl, from Latin acētum "vinegar" + German -yl -yl — more at acetic acid

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of acetyl was in 1864

Cite this Entry

“Acetyl.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acetyl. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

: the radical CH3CO of acetic acid

More from Merriam-Webster on acetyl

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