butyric acid

noun

: either of two isomeric fatty acids C₄H₈O₂

especially : the straight-chain acid of unpleasant odor normally found in perspiration and rancid butter

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Under aerobic conditions, in Nairobi for example, paracresol and indole reached concentrations of 89 and 65 μg/g, respectively, which, along with short chain fatty acids such as butyric acid (13 mg/g) explained the strong rancid, manure and farm yard odor. —Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 1 May 2014

Byproducts associated with rot, such as propionic acid and butyric acid, can leave feet smelling like rancid cabbage. —Jason Tetro, Discover Magazine, 24 Mar. 2016

These microbes normally generate substances that help maintain the gut lining, including short-chain fatty acids such as butyric acid. —Katrin Legg, Scientific American, 24 June 2021

Females produce seeds with an outer fleshy layer that contains butyric acid, the signature scent of human vomit. —Sarah Gibbens, Environment, 30 Nov. 2020

Ghee is high in Omega-3s and butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid thought to be good for your gastrointestinal tract. —Aliza Abarbanel, Bon Appetit, 5 Apr. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

butyric acid

noun

bu·​tyr·​ic acid

byü-ˌtir-ik-

: an acid with an unpleasant odor found in sweat and spoiling butter

Medical Definition

butyric acid

noun

: either of two isomeric fatty acids C₄H₈O₂:

a

: a normal acid of unpleasant odor found in rancid butter and in perspiration

b

: isobutyric acid