Meaning & Definition of word "Acid"

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    Acid

    /ˈæsɪd/

    noun:

    • 1. A substance with a sour taste that turns litmus red and reacts with bases to form salts.
      • Example: The chemist demonstrated the properties of hydrochloric acid in the laboratory.
    • 2. A chemical compound with a pH of less than 7, containing hydrogen ions that can be donated in a reaction.
      • Example: Citric acid is commonly found in citrus fruits.
    • 3. A substance that donates protons or hydrogen ions and accepts electrons.
      • Example: Acetic acid is the main component of vinegar.

    adjective:

    • 1. Having a sour or sharp taste.
      • Example: The acid taste of the lime added a refreshing kick to the drink.
    • 2. Relating to the properties of acids.
      • Example: The acid solution needs to be handled with care to avoid skin irritation.

    Etymology

    Late Middle English: from Latin acidus 'sour, sharp', from acere 'to be sour'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    acid test:

    A definitive test of the quality or value of something.

    acid rain:

    Rainfall made acid by atmospheric pollution.

    hydrochloric acid:

    A strong acidic solution of hydrogen chloride in water.

    Related Words

    alkaline:

    A basic substance that can neutralize acids.

    pH:

    A scale used to specify the acidity or basicity of an aqueous solution.

    buffer:

    A solution that resists changes in pH when an acid or base is added.

    Slang Meanings of acid

    Meaning: LSD, a popular hallucinogenic drug.

    Example Sentence: He was tripping on acid all night.

    Meaning: A musical style or culture associated with the use of psychedelic drugs.

    Example Sentence: The acid music scene really took off in the 90s.