formate

noun

for·​mate ˈfȯr-ˌmāt 

: a salt or ester of formic acid

Examples of formate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This reaction releases an electron, which travels to the second compartment to reduce carbon dioxide into formate, a versatile chemical used in textiles, paints, and pharmaceuticals. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 12 June 2026

The frozen COMs that were confirmed to exist around ST6 include acetaldehyde, acetic acid, ethanol, methanol and methyl formate. — Keith Cooper, Space.com, 7 Nov. 2025

Cyanides and ethyl formate populate the galactic center. — Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 15 Sep. 2025

Formic acid and formate can also reduce the pH level of blood, harming tissue throughout the body and leading to organ failure. — Katherine Hignett, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

formate

noun

for·​mate ˈfȯ(ə)r-ˌmāt 

: a salt or ester of formic acid