ester

noun

es·​ter ˈe-stər How to pronounce ester (audio)
: any of a class of often fragrant organic compounds that can be represented by the formula RCOOR′ and that are usually formed by the reaction between an acid and an alcohol with elimination of water

Examples of ester in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Finish: Matte Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, olive oil, berry fruit wax, jojoba esters Staying power: Long-wearing Ease of application: For precise application, use the edge of the bullet’s micro-stilo tip to outline the lips before filling them in. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 8 Mar. 2024 What brands could use instead: Various plant oils and esters or dimethicone could serve as suitable substitutes. Marci Robin, Allure, 29 Jan. 2024 In layman's terms, retinyl ester is a less concentrated form of vitamin A, which isn't as aggressive on sensitive complexions. Kaleigh Fasanella, Allure, 29 Dec. 2023 Formulated with pumice and jojoba esters, and boosted AHA/BHA/PHA chemical exfoliants, the scrub grips, polishes and smooths skin. Angela Lei, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2023 The powder formula is also enriched with lots of nourishing ingredients that promote skin health, including hyaluronic acid, jojoba esters, aloe leaf, honeysuckle, safflower, and hibiscus extract. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 26 Oct. 2023 Cosmetic chemist Ginger King attributes its non-sticky glossiness to its abundant use of esters. Jesa Marie Calaor, Allure, 1 Oct. 2023 Higher lactic ester of monoglycerides was associated with higher cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease risks. Lauren Manaker Ms, Rdn, Ld, Verywell Health, 27 Sep. 2023 Congeners can be esters, which produce a fruity or floral flavor, or complex alcohols, which can taste strong and aromatic. Michael W. Crowder, Fortune, 14 Sep. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ester.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

German, from Essigäther ethyl acetate, from Essig vinegar + Äther ether

First Known Use

circa 1852, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ester was circa 1852

Dictionary Entries Near ester

Cite this Entry

“Ester.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ester. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

ester

noun
es·​ter ˈes-tər How to pronounce ester (audio)
: an organic compound formed by the reaction between an acid and an alcohol

Medical Definition

ester

noun
es·​ter ˈes-tər How to pronounce ester (audio)
: any of a class of often fragrant compounds that can be represented by the formula RCOOR′ and that are usually formed by the reaction between an acid and an alcohol usually with elimination of water

More from Merriam-Webster on ester

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!