© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

glycolic

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ɡlaɪˈkɒlɪk//

KK: /glaɪˈkɒlɪk/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a type of acid that is used in various skin care products and chemical processes.


Example

Glycolic acid is often used in facial peels to improve skin texture.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried a glycolic acid peel for your skin?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I've heard they work wonders.
Sloth A
Yeah, they help remove dead skin cells and brighten your complexion.
Sloth B
That sounds amazing! Maybe I should give a glycolic product a try.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
acidic
exfoliating
derivative
Antonyms
alkaline
basic
neutral
Root Explanation

Glycolic is derived from "glycol" (from Greek "glykys", meaning sweet) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The word refers to a substance that is related to or derived from glycol, which is a sweet-tasting compound.

Memory Tip

Think of 'glycol' meaning sweet, and remember that 'glycolic' pertains to something related to that sweet compound.

Visually Confused Words
glyoxylic
glyoxalic
Is this page helpful?