benzoic acid

noun, Chemistry, Pharmacology
1.
a white, crystalline, slightly water-soluble powder, C 7 H 6 O 2 , usually derived from benzoin or other balsams, or synthesized from phthalic acid or toluene: used chiefly as a preservative, in the synthesis of dyes, and in medicine as a germicide.
Also called benzenecarboxylic acid, phenylformic acid.
Origin
1785-95
British Dictionary definitions for benzoic acid

benzoic acid

noun
1.
a white crystalline solid occurring in many natural resins, used in the manufacture of benzoates, plasticizers, and dyes and as a food preservative (E210). Formula: C6H5COOH Systematic name benzenecarboxylic acid
benzoic acid in Medicine

benzoic acid ben·zo·ic acid (běn-zō'ĭk)
n.
An aromatic white crystalline acid used to season tobacco and in perfumes, dentifrices, and germicides.

benzoic acid in Science
benzoic acid
  (běn-zō'ĭk)   
A white, crystalline acid used in preserving food, as a cosmetic, and in medicine. Benzoic acid consists of a benzene ring with a carboxyl group (COOH) attached. It occurs naturally in some plants. Chemical formula: C7H6O2.
Encyclopedia Article for benzoic acid

a white, crystalline organic compound belonging to the family of carboxylic acids, widely used as a food preservative and in the manufacture of various cosmetics, dyes, plastics, and insect repellents.

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