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

Okoaskin is one of the brands putting IDEALIFT™ (acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester) to work in its lifting cream. — Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2026

Procapil brings biotinoyl tripeptide-1 together with botanical ingredients that help fortify follicles and anchor hair at the root, while Capixyl combines acetyl tetrapeptide-3 with red clover extract for stronger, denser-looking hair. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 28 Aug. 2026

Others, like acetyl-D-leucine, have similar forms that have approval. — Mike McRae 26, New Atlas, 26 Aug. 2026

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

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