acetyl

noun

ace·​tyl ə-ˈsē-tᵊl  ˈa-sə- 

ˈa-sə-ˌtēl

: the radical CH₃CO− of acetic acid

—often used in combination

Examples of acetyl in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The peptide complex includes acetyl hexapeptide-8, which is often referred to as botox in a jar for its plumping, evening effect. — Essence Wiley, InStyle, 24 June 2026

The regimen included omega-3s; the antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine, commonly referred to as NAC; creatine, an amino acid supplement often used in athletic training; curcumin, an anti-inflammatory supplement derived from the turmeric plant, and more. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 26 Jan. 2026

And if uneven tone is on your radar too, the formula also includes N-acetyl glucosamine, an amino sugar that reinforces the barrier while helping brighten over time. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 17 Jan. 2026

Some molecules involved in epigenetic processes, such as methyl or acetyl groups, interface directly with DNA or bind to proteins attached to DNA. — Ivan Amato, Quanta Magazine, 22 Dec. 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

Phrases Containing acetyl

• acetyl-CoA
• acetyl coenzyme A

Rhymes for acetyl

• bimetal
• gunmetal
• nonmetal
• resettle
• teakettle
• unsettle
• betel
• cetyl
• kettle
• metal
• mettle
• nettle

Medical Definition

acetyl

noun

ace·​tyl ə-ˈsēt-ᵊl  ˈas-ət-; ˈas-ə-ˌtēl 

: the radical CH₃CO of acetic acid