a white crystalline derivative of toluene existing in three isomeric forms; methylbenzoic acid. The ortho- and para- isomers are used in synthetic resins and the meta- isomer is used as an insect repellent. Formula: C6H4CH3COOH
Word origin
C19: from tolu(ene) + -ic
toluic acid in American English
(toʊˈluɪk; ˈtɑljuɪk)
any of four isomeric acids, C6H4CH3COOH, carboxyl derivatives of toluene, used in the manufacture of various resins, in organic synthesis, etc.