carboxyl Chem.
(kɑːˈbɒksɪl)
[f. carbon n. + oxygen) + -yl = substance.]
A name given to the monad group {b1}CO·OH, contained in all the fatty acids; thus Formic acid is H{b1}CO·OH, Acetic acid CH3{b1}CO·OH, Butyric acid C3H7{b1}CO·OH.
| 1869 Roscoe Elem. Chem. 346 Carboxyl we thus regard as contained in all the fatty acids: it is formed by the oxidation of methyl. 1878 Kingzett Anim. Chem. 33 Hydrogen is replaced by a monad carboxyl group. |