phthalate

noun

phthal·​ate ˈtha-ˌlāt How to pronounce phthalate (audio)
: any of various salts or esters of phthalic acid used especially as plasticizers and in solvents

Examples of phthalate 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.
One study has estimated that 50,000 people a year die in the U.S. because of the level of phthalates lowering their hormones. Leonardo Trasande, Fortune, 21 Nov. 2024 Overall, Black children had the highest levels of phthalates in their urine. Maria Godoy, NPR, 9 Sep. 2024 Past research has found the presence of chemicals, including phthalates, in some sanitary pads, panty liners, and tampons. Chantelle Lee, TIME, 2 Aug. 2024 In his lab, Lea has found that exposure to phthalates, which are chemicals that can leach from plastics, can reduce the ability of sperm to swim and increase the fragmentation of DNA in the sperm head. Will Stone, NPR, 22 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for phthalate 

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phthalate was in 1863

Dictionary Entries Near phthalate

Cite this Entry

“Phthalate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phthalate. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

phthalate

noun
phthal·​ate ˈthal-ˌāt How to pronounce phthalate (audio)
: a salt or ester of phthalic acid
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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