aldehyde

noun

al·​de·​hyde ˈal-də-ˌhīd 

: acetaldehyde

broadly : any of a class of highly reactive organic compounds that are analogous to acetaldehyde and characterized by a carbonyl group attached to a hydrogen atom

aldehydic

ˌal-də-ˈhī-dik 

adjective

Examples of aldehyde in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

An enzyme called aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is responsible for breaking down acetaldehyde. —John Loeppky, Verywell Health, 14 Aug. 2024

Top notes of aldehydes (for the vodka effect) are grounded by cardamom and oakmoss, creating a refreshing spritzer that captures the cold steam essence of ice cubes and a splash of vodka. —Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 13 Aug. 2024

By doing so, enzymes are released which break down the aldehydes that are pungent to some consumers. —Marina Johnson, The Indianapolis Star, 16 July 2024

The three top notes are bergamot, aldehyde and amber. —David Moin, WWD, 3 Sep. 2019

Word History

Etymology

German Aldehyd, from New Latin al. dehyd., abbreviation of alcohol dehydrogenatum dehydrogenated alcohol

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

aldehyde

noun

al·​de·​hyde ˈal-də-ˌhīd 

: acetaldehyde

broadly : any of various highly reactive compounds typified by acetaldehyde and characterized by the group CHO

aldehydic

ˌal-də-ˈhīd-ik 

adjective