Definition

A group of atoms that comes from an organic acid, formed by removing a part of the acid, usually the hydroxyl group. It is often used in chemistry to describe certain types of compounds.

Example

The acyl group is essential in the formation of esters and amides.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an acyl group in chemistry?

Yeah, I think it's related to organic acids, right?

Exactly! It’s formed when you remove the hydroxyl from the acid.

That makes sense; it sounds pretty interesting!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Acyl is derived from the prefix "a-" (meaning without) and "cyl" (from the Greek "kylios", meaning a ring or circle). The term acyl refers to a functional group derived from a carboxylic acid by removing the hydroxyl group, thus representing a structure that is 'without' the hydroxyl part of the acid, forming a 'ring' structure in some contexts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without' ('a-') the 'ring' ('cyl') of a carboxylic acid, which helps you remember that acyl refers to a part of the acid missing its hydroxyl group.

Visually Confused Words