undecylenic acid

noun

un·​dec·​y·​le·​nic acid ˌən-ˌde-sə-ˈle-nik- How to pronounce undecylenic acid (audio) -ˈlē- How to pronounce undecylenic acid (audio)
: a fatty acid C11H20O2 found in perspiration, obtained commercially from castor oil, and used especially in the treatment of fungal infections (such as ringworm) of the skin

Examples of undecylenic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Undecylenic Acid: Kerassentials contains undecylenic acid, a beneficial fatty acid for helping to prevent fungus and protect the nails, among other effects. James Robinson, Discover Magazine, 8 Dec. 2022 The largest ingredient in Kerassentials is undecylenic acid. James Robinson, Discover Magazine, 8 Dec. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'undecylenic acid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

undecylene (C11H22)

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of undecylenic acid was in 1879

Dictionary Entries Near undecylenic acid

Cite this Entry

“Undecylenic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/undecylenic%20acid. Accessed 3 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

undecylenic acid

noun
un·​dec·​y·​le·​nic acid ˌən-ˌdes-ə-ˌlen-ik- How to pronounce undecylenic acid (audio) -ˌlēn- How to pronounce undecylenic acid (audio)
: an acid C11H20O2 found in perspiration, obtained commercially from castor oil, and used in the treatment of fungus infections (as ringworm) of the skin

More from Merriam-Webster on undecylenic acid

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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