glycerol

noun

glyc·​er·​ol ˈgli-sə-ˌrȯl  -ˌrōl 

: a sweet syrupy hygroscopic trihydroxy alcohol C₃H₈O₃ usually obtained by the saponification of fats

Examples of glycerol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Past research that rendered skin transparent focused on introducing already transparent materials, including glycerol and fructose solution. —Lauren J. Young, Scientific American, 5 Sep. 2024

This has led to investigations into glycerol's safety—particularly with regard to young children. —Sarah Scott, Parents, 7 Aug. 2024

Because glycerol is not considered part of a balanced diet, the FDA has not established an acceptable daily intake level. —Sarah Scott, Parents, 7 Aug. 2024

Foods containing artificial sweeteners (particularly sugar alcohols, like sorbitol, mannitol, and glycerol) can also dial up the gas in your GI tract and lead to bloating. —Marygrace Taylor, SELF, 2 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

glycerin + -ol

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

glycerol

noun

glyc·​er·​ol ˈglis-ə-ˌrȯl 

-ˌrōl

: a sweet colorless syrupy alcohol usually obtained from fats and oils

Medical Definition

glycerol

noun

glyc·​er·​ol ˈglis-ə-ˌrȯl  -ˌrōl 

: a sweet syrupy hygroscopic trihydroxy alcohol C₃H₈O₃ usually obtained by the saponification of fats and used especially as a solvent and plasticizer, as a moistening agent, emollient, and lubricant, and as an emulsifying agent

called also glycerin