phthalate

noun

phthal·​ate ˈtha-ˌlāt 

: 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

Scientists at the Beckman Institute have been tracking levels of plastic-softening phthalates in the blood of children since before they were born up until age 11. — Michael Hawthorne, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026

There are those that have been studied for potential health risks (phthalates), those that could be contaminated with a harmful substance, and others that are just potentially irritating to some (certain sulfates). — Tracy Middleton, Allure, 19 Oct. 2026

Many of these goods, which were purchased on online platforms, were fakes that contained dangerous levels of phthalates, lead, formaldehyde, nickel and other substances. — Kate Nishimura, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2026

Glyphosate and phthalates Although cats are carnivores, many manufacturers add produce to cat food for its antioxidants, minerals and vitamins. — Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 2 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing phthalate

• dibutyl phthalate

Rhymes for phthalate

• abate
• airfreight
• await
• baseplate
• berate
• birthdate
• birthrate
• bookplate
• borate
• breastplate
• bromate
• casemate

Medical Definition

phthalate

noun

phthal·​ate ˈthal-ˌāt 

: a salt or ester of phthalic acid