malic acid

noun

: a crystalline dicarboxylic acid C₄H₆O₅

especially : the levorotatory isomer of malic acid that is found in various fruits (such as apples) and is formed as an intermediate in the Krebs cycle

Examples of malic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This legendary peel combines salicylic acid with AHAs—glycolic, mandelic, lactic, citric, and malic acids—for a treatment that’s effective, yet gentle enough to use daily. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 2 Apr. 2025

Citrulline malate contains malic acid, which may help with cellular energy and improve how well your body absorbs the L-citrulline. —Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 19 Mar. 2025

Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B5 How to Apply: Apply one coat and leave as is for a natural look, or use as a base coat before applying color. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 15 Feb. 2025

Mulled Wine Sour Ingredients 15 ml Rye whiskey 15 ml Pedro Ximenez sherry 15 ml Madeira 15 ml sweet vermouth 20 ml orange acid (Mix 1 liter of fresh orange juice with 25 grams citric acid and 15 grams malic acid. —Boutayna Chokrane, Vogue, 29 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French acide malique, ultimately from Latin malum apple, from Greek mēlon, malon

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for malic acid

• antacid
• placid

Medical Definition

malic acid

noun

: any of three optical isomers of a crystalline dicarboxylic acid C₄H₆O₅

especially : the one found in various plant juices and formed as an intermediate in the Krebs cycle