salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsa-lə-ˈsi-lik- 

: a crystalline phenolic acid C₇H₆O₃ that is used medicinally especially as a skin exfoliant and in the form of salts and other derivatives as an analgesic and antipyretic compare aspirin

Examples of salicylic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The formula combines 2% salicylic acid with calming green tea and cucumber extracts, plus glycerin to lightly hydrate so your skin feels refreshed, not tight. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 9 Aug. 2025

The thinking is that the salicylic acid in the aspirin wards off bacteria that can cause disease. —Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Aug. 2025

The lightweight spray uses 2% salicylic acid and glycerin to treat and prevent acne without drying skin out. —Jackie Fields, People.com, 1 Aug. 2025

Original price: $12.99 This Billie AHA Deodorant in Tidal Rose scent uses a pH-adjusting multi-acid blend (including lactic, mandelic and salicylic acids) to fight odors. —Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 4 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French salicylique, from salicyle, the group HOC₆H₄CO, from salicine salicin + -yle -yl

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for salicylic acid

• antacid
• placid

Kids Definition

salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsal-ə-ˌsil-ik- 

: a weak acid used especially in the form of salts to relieve pain and fever

Medical Definition

salicylic acid

noun

sal·​i·​cyl·​ic acid ˌsal-ə-ˌsil-ik- 

: a crystalline phenolic acid C₇H₆O₃ that is the ortho form of hydroxybenzoic acid and is used especially in making pharmaceuticals and dyes, as an antiseptic and disinfectant especially in treating skin diseases, as a keratolytic agent for skin exfoliation, and in the form of salts and other derivatives as an analgesic and antipyretic and in the treatment of rheumatism see aspirin