phosphoric acid

noun

1

: a syrupy or deliquescent tribasic acid H₃PO₄ used especially in preparing phosphates (as for fertilizers), in rust-proofing metals, and especially formerly as a flavoring in soft drinks

called also orthophosphoric acid

2

: a compound (such as pyrophosphoric acid or metaphosphoric acid) consisting of phosphate groups linked directly to each other by oxygen

Examples of phosphoric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Here's the ingredient list for Pepsi Prebiotic Cola and traditional Pepsi: Pepsi Prebiotic Cola: Carbonated water, cane sugar, soluble corn fiber, caramel color, phosphoric acid, natural flavor, Stevia extract and caffeine. —Mike Snider, USA Today, 28 Nov. 2025

Studies suggest that artificial sweeteners and phosphoric acid in these drinks can strain the kidneys and increase the risk of damage. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 19 Nov. 2025

Foods and drinks high in fiber, phytic acid, phosphoric acid, alcohol, and caffeine can interfere with how well your body uses magnesium. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 3 Nov. 2025

According to the release, the chemical involved in the incident was identified as hyperflex, or acid sanitizer, which contains phosphoric acid and nitric acid. —Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 24 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for phosphoric acid

• antacid
• placid

Kids Definition

phosphoric acid

noun

phos·​phor·​ic acid

fäs-ˌfȯr-ik-, 

-ˌfär-

: any of several oxygen-containing acids of phosphorus

Medical Definition

phosphoric acid

noun

1

: a syrupy or deliquescent tribasic acid H₃PO₄ used especially in preparing phosphates (as for fertilizers), in rust-proofing metals, and especially formerly as a flavoring in soft drinks

called also orthophosphoric acid

2

: a compound (as pyrophosphoric acid or metaphosphoric acid) consisting of phosphate groups linked directly to each other by oxygen