maleic anhydride

noun

: a caustic crystalline cyclic anhydride C₄H₂O₃ used especially in making resins

Examples of maleic anhydride in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Water caused increased pressure and temperature in the tank, and a pressure-relief valve lifted, releasing 1,800 pounds of maleic anhydride vapors into the air. —

Mark Schleifstein, NOLA.com, 3 Jan. 2021

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

Word History

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of maleic anhydride was in 1857

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Maleic anhydride.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maleic%20anhydride. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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