polyhydroxy

adjective

poly·​hy·​droxy ˌpä-lē-hī-ˈdräk-sē How to pronounce polyhydroxy (audio)
: containing more than one hydroxyl group in the molecule

Examples of polyhydroxy 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.
The beta hydroxy and polyhydroxy acids work together to help clear pores while gently exfoliating, while the watermelon enzymes exfoliate while brightening the skin. Erika Reals, Peoplemag, 30 Mar. 2023 Tuesday, January 10: Treat your skin with the Exuviance Age Reverse Rebuild-5 Cream, which is chock-full of firming peptides, gently exfoliating polyhydroxy acids, free-radical-fighting vitamin E, and moisturizing peony extract. Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 6 Jan. 2023 For sensitive skin types, gentle chemical exfoliants that include PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) are ideal. Sarah Madaus, SELF, 9 Nov. 2021 Chlöe opts for the normal-and-combination skin formula, a 9 percent blend of AHAs and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs). Lindy Segal, Harper's BAZAAR, 29 Sep. 2021 Look for polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) instead. Audrey Noble, Seventeen, 26 Oct. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polyhydroxy was in 1895

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Polyhydroxy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polyhydroxy. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

polyhydroxy

adjective
poly·​hy·​droxy -hī-ˈdräk-sē How to pronounce polyhydroxy (audio)
: containing more than one hydroxyl group in the molecule
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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