DictionarylacticMetabolic acid
adjective

lactic

Relating to lactic acid.

Lactic acid gives fermented foods like yogurt their tangy taste.

Etymology

The Latin word means milk. Lactic acid received its name from its discovery in sour milk, and the adjective identifies its relation to that acid.

In context

Crushed Grape Chronicles0:49
lactic acid which is the softer acid found in milk
Chardonnay 101, from grape to Wine

More examples

  • Lactic acid bacteria help turn cabbage into sauerkraut.
  • This skin cream contains lactic acid.
  • Severe oxygen shortages can lead to lactic acidosis.

Forms

lactate noun — A salt or ester of lactic acid.