Definition

A yellow liquid that dissolves in water, made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. It is found in butter and some essential oils, and is often used to enhance the taste and smell of foods like vinegar and coffee.

Example

The chef added biacetyl to the sauce to give it a richer flavor.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of biacetyl?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's a compound that adds flavor to foods like vinegar and coffee.

That sounds interesting! I wonder if I've tasted it without knowing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Biacetyl is formed from "bi-" (meaning two) and "acetyl" (from the Latin "acetum", meaning vinegar, and the suffix "-yl" indicating a radical or group). The word refers to a compound that contains two acetyl groups.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bi-' meaning two, and 'acetyl' relating to vinegar — biacetyl is a compound with two vinegar-like groups.

Visually Confused Words