Ester
(noun)
An organic compound formed by the reaction between an acid and an alcohol, with the elimination of water, and having the general formula RCOOR'.
Origin:
From german essigäther, from essig ("vinegar") + äther ("ethe.r")
Examples:
- Esters are common compounds found in many natural materials, such as fruits, flowers, and essential oils.
- Esters are used in many industrial and commercial applications, such as the manufacture of perfumes, flavors, and plastics.
- Esters are derivatives of carboxylic acids and can be synthesized by several methods.
- Esters are characterized by their sweet, fruity, or floral odors.
- Esters are important building blocks for polymers, films, and fibers.