carbonic acid

noun

: a weak dibasic acid H2CO3 known only in solution that reacts with bases to form carbonates

Examples of carbonic acid 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 carbonic acid is converted to a mineral called bicarbonate, which cannot re-gas to the atmosphere and eventually is washed into the ocean, where it is stored for about 10,000 years. Ross Rosenfeld, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 Apr. 2025 By boiling the infusion of malt and hops, cooling out of contact with air and fermenting with a pure yeast in vessels to which only carbonic acid or pure air is admitted, a beer is produced of superior quality, which may be preserved without trouble for any time. Mark Fischetti, Scientific American, 19 Mar. 2024 One of the biggest concerns about sparkling water is its effect on dental health, as the carbonation process introduces carbonic acid into the water — a substance that can potentially erode the enamel on your teeth. Hannah Jeon, Good Housekeeping, 9 Nov. 2022 The first product of that reaction is a compound called carbonic acid, which soon gives up its hydrogen ion. WIRED, 2 Nov. 2022 See All Example Sentences for carbonic acid

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of carbonic acid was in 1867

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Carbonic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carbonic%20acid. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

carbonic acid

noun
car·​bon·​ic acid
kär-ˈbän-ik-
: a weak acid that is formed from water and carbon dioxide, is found only in mixtures with water, and breaks down easily

Medical Definition

carbonic acid

noun
: a weak dibasic acid H2CO3 known only in solution that reacts with bases to form carbonates

More from Merriam-Webster on carbonic acid

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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