boric acid

noun
1.
Also called orthoboric acid. Chemistry, Pharmacology. a white, crystalline acid, H 3 BO 3 , occurring in nature or prepared from borax: used chiefly in the manufacture of ceramics, cements, glass, and enamels, for fireproofing, and in medicine in aqueous solution as a mild antiseptic.
2.
Chemistry. any of a group of acids containing boron.
Origin
1865-70
Examples from the web for boric acid
  • boric acid is a strong neutron absorber which will help prevent the nuclear fuel from overheating.
  • The seawater was also laced with boric acid, to soak up stray neutrons that the control rods missed.
  • In the three months, inspectors have found that boric acid has eaten a hole in the thick cap that covers the reactor vessel.
  • boric acid should be reconsidered as a control for fire ants.
  • Previous research indicated boric acid was ineffective.
  • boric acid purchased on the world market was being used to feed the purified-grade boric-acid facility.
  • Knowledge of effects of boric acid corrosion and susceptible penetrations on the reactor vessel head.
  • Diluted solutions of boric acid have an antiinflammatory effect and are often used as an eye tonic.
British Dictionary definitions for boric acid

boric acid

noun
1.
Also called orthoboric acid. a white soluble weakly acid crystalline solid used in the manufacture of heat-resistant glass and porcelain enamels, as a fireproofing material, and as a mild antiseptic. Formula: H3BO3 Systematic name trioxoboric(III) acid
2.
any other acid containing boron
boric acid in Medicine

boric acid bo·ric acid (bôr'ĭk)
n.
A water-soluble white or colorless crystalline compound used as an antiseptic and preservative.

boric acid in Science
boric acid
  (bôr'ĭk)   
A white or colorless crystalline compound that occurs naturally or is produced artificially from borax. It is used as an antiseptic and preservative, and in cements, enamels, and cosmetics. Chemical formula: H3BO3.