ester
Ester (noun) means a type of chemical compound formed when an acid and an alcohol react together, releasing water; many esters give fruits and flowers their smell. Example: “The fruity smell of the candle comes from an ester used in the fragrance.”
How to use ester
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA chemistry term for a compound made from an acid and an alcohol, often responsible for pleasant fruity smells.
Word forms
- Plural
- esters
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The fruity smell of the candle comes from an _____ used in the fragrance.
Etymology
Coined in German as a blend of Essig ("vinegar") and Äther ("ether") — describing a compound partway between the two in character.
Rhymes for ester
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