citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˈsi-trik- 

: a tricarboxylic acid C₆H₈O₇ occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used chiefly as a flavoring

Examples of citric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some people have luck with spraying the perimeter of the pool with citric acid, lemon juice, or vinegar. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 June 2026

According to Tim Jones, a cleaning expert at Lemi Shine, a cleaning brand whose products are powered by citric acid and are free from bleach and ammonia, the trick for cleaning greasy stove knobs is using the right ingredient. —Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 3 June 2026

Citric Acid Method Similar to borax, citric acid can safely and effectively remove water marks, rust, and mineral deposits from your toilet bowl. —Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 2 June 2026

Carbonated water is slightly acidic, which can wear down tooth enamel when consumed in large quantities, especially if the seltzer uses citric acid for flavoring. —Amelia Lucas, CNBC, 24 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for citric acid

• antacid
• placid

Kids Definition

citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- 

: a pleasantly sour-tasting organic acid obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by the chemical breakdown of sugars and used as a flavoring

Medical Definition

citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- 

: a sour organic acid C₆H₈O₇ occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used as a flavoring