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

Supporting ingredients like niacinamide, glycerin, salicylic acid, and menthol help calm itch, loosen buildup, and leave the scalp feeling refreshed. —Allure, 18 Dec. 2025

Opt for cleansers with postpartum-safe acne fighters like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or azelaic acid, and skip the harsh scrubs—and not forget to moisturize. —Alex Vance, Parents, 10 Dec. 2025

Wiley and his team also studied preservatives such as salicylic acid, sulfurous acid, benzoates, and copper compounds. —Ben Baumann, IndyStar, 5 Dec. 2025

New from the brand is the Paint & Peel Liquid Pimple Patch, which features a gel-like formula that can be used on any size breakout and is formulated with 1 percent salicylic acid. —Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Dec. 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