1. A functional group consisting of a carbon atom bonded to an oxygen atom and a hydroxyl group, with the chemical formula -COOH; characteristic of organic acids.
Usage: chemistry; technical

1. Of, relating to, or containing a carboxyl group.
Usage: chemistry; technical

Examples

• Acetic acid contains a carboxyl group that gives it its acidic properties.
• The carboxyl end of a protein chain is where the carboxyl group is located.
• Amino acids have both an amino group and a carboxyl group attached to the same carbon atom.
• Fatty acids are long hydrocarbon chains with a carboxyl group at one end.
• The carboxyl functional group is essential for the formation of ester bonds in biochemistry.