citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˈsi-trik- 

: a tricarboxylic acid C₆H₈O₇ occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used chiefly as a flavoring

Examples of citric acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Key ingredients: Multi-weight hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, citric acid. —Denise Primbet, Glamour, 21 Feb. 2025

This lightweight, silicone-free formula is all about strengthening hair bonds, smoothing out frizz and split ends, and delivering weightless hydration—thanks to citric acid and an 11% bonding care complex. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 16 Feb. 2025

Strawberry energy chew Ingredient list: Organic tapioca syrup, organic cane sugar, water, pectin, potassium citrate, citric acid, natural flavors, Vit B3/B6/B12, fruit blends of apple, blueberry, pomegranate Ultra-processed? —Matthew Kadey, Outside Online, 8 Feb. 2025

Other notable ingredients: pH-balancing citric acid Size: 2.5 oz. —Sarah Felbin, SELF, 6 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for citric acid

• antacid
• placid

Kids Definition

citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- 

: a pleasantly sour-tasting organic acid obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by the chemical breakdown of sugars and used as a flavoring

Medical Definition

citric acid

noun

cit·​ric acid ˌsi-trik- 

: a sour organic acid C₆H₈O₇ occurring in cellular metabolism, obtained especially from lemon and lime juices or by fermentation of sugars, and used as a flavoring