pyruvic acid

noun

py·ru·vic acid pī-ˈrü-vik-

: a 3-carbon acid C₃H₄O₃ that in carbohydrate metabolism is an important intermediate product formed especially during glycolysis

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The sweet flavor isn't due to higher quantities of sugar but to fewer chemical compounds of pyruvic acid and sulfur compounds that normally make onions sharp. —

Silvia Marchetti, CNN, 8 Oct. 2022 Pigment-specific peels, like pyruvic acid, are recommended since studies have shown this ingredient is specifically effective for diminishing hyperpigmentation. —

Julie Ricevuto, Allure, 22 Oct. 2020 For example, carbonaceous chondrites—some of the oldest rocks in the solar system—were recently found to harbor pyruvic acid, which is essential for metabolism. —

David W. Brown, Smithsonian, 2 July 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pyruvic acid.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary pyr- + Latin uva grapes; from its importance in fermentation — more at uvula

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of pyruvic acid was in 1838

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Pyruvic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pyruvic%20acid. Accessed 8 Feb. 2023.

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Kids Definition

pyruvic acid

noun

py·ru·vic acid pī-ˌrü-vik-

: an acid that can be formed from either glucose or glycogen and is an important chemical in the production of energy from food in animals

Medical Definition

pyruvic acid

noun

py·ru·vic acid pī-ˌrü-vik-

: a 3-carbon acid C₃H₄O₃ that is an intermediate in carbohydrate metabolism and can be formed either from glucose after phosphorylation or from glycogen by glycolysis