pyruvic acid
noun
py·ru·vic acid
pī-ˈrü-vik- 
: a 3-carbon acid C3H4O3 that in carbohydrate metabolism is an important intermediate product formed especially during glycolysis
Examples of pyruvic acid in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to isolate compounds in the mixture, the researchers identified the presence of succinic and pyruvic acids.
—
Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Apr. 2025
An entirely different set of compounds—combining unstable sulfonic acids and ammonia and pyruvic acid—produce the pungent flavor and smell.
—Mark Kurlansky, Bon Appétit, 6 Nov. 2023
The sweet flavor isn't due to higher quantities of sugar but to fewer chemical compounds of pyruvic acid and sulfur compounds that normally make onions sharp.
—Silvia Marchetti, CNN, 8 Oct. 2022
Pigment-specific peels, like pyruvic acid, are recommended since studies have shown this ingredient is specifically effective for diminishing hyperpigmentation.
—Julie Ricevuto, Allure, 22 Oct. 2020
For example, carbonaceous chondrites—some of the oldest rocks in the solar system—were recently found to harbor pyruvic acid, which is essential for metabolism.
—David W. Brown, Smithsonian, 2 July 2018
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Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Apr. 2025
An entirely different set of compounds—combining unstable sulfonic acids and ammonia and pyruvic acid—produce the pungent flavor and smell.
—Mark Kurlansky, Bon Appétit, 6 Nov. 2023
The sweet flavor isn't due to higher quantities of sugar but to fewer chemical compounds of pyruvic acid and sulfur compounds that normally make onions sharp.
—Silvia Marchetti, CNN, 8 Oct. 2022
Pigment-specific peels, like pyruvic acid, are recommended since studies have shown this ingredient is specifically effective for diminishing hyperpigmentation.
—Julie Ricevuto, Allure, 22 Oct. 2020
For example, carbonaceous chondrites—some of the oldest rocks in the solar system—were recently found to harbor pyruvic acid, which is essential for metabolism.
—David W. Brown, Smithsonian, 2 July 2018
Cite this Entry
“Pyruvic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pyruvic%20acid. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
pyruvic acid
noun
py·ru·vic acid
pī-ˌrü-vik-
: an acid that can be formed from either glucose or glycogen and is an important chemical in the production of energy from food in animals
Medical Definition
pyruvic acid
noun
py·ru·vic acid
pī-ˌrü-vik-
: a 3-carbon acid C3H4O3 that is an intermediate in carbohydrate metabolism and can be formed either from glucose after phosphorylation or from glycogen by glycolysis
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