phenolic

1 of 2

adjective

phe·​no·​lic fi-ˈnō-lik How to pronounce phenolic (audio) -ˈnä- How to pronounce phenolic (audio)
1
a
: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of a phenol
b
: containing or derived from a phenol
2
: of, relating to, or being a phenolic

phenolic

2 of 2

noun

1
: a usually thermosetting resin or plastic made by condensation of a phenol with an aldehyde and used especially for molding and insulating and in coatings and adhesives

called also phenolic resin

2

Examples of phenolic 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.
Adjective
Sani says the very long and gentle ripening season allowed the grapes to achieve excellent phenolic maturity while preserving freshness, balance, and aromatic complexity. Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 14 June 2026 Cranberries are rich in polyphenol antioxidants, including phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. Cynthia Sass, Health, 27 Apr. 2026
Noun
Some say sulfurous and phenolic, others say straight-up skunky. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 16 June 2026 These compounds—including flavonoids and phenolic aldehydes—are especially abundant in the peels, stems, and leaves. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 13 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for phenolic

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1926, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of phenolic was circa 1872

Cite this Entry

“Phenolic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phenolic. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.

Medical Definition

phenolic

1 of 2 adjective
phe·​no·​lic
fi-ˈnō-lik, -ˈnäl-ik
: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of a phenol
also : containing or derived from a phenol

phenolic

2 of 2 noun
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