1. converting (a carboxylic acid or alcohol) into an ester through a chemical reaction
Usage: chemistry; present participle of esterify

Examples

• The chemist is esterifying the fatty acids to produce biodiesel.
• Esterifying acetic acid with ethanol produces ethyl acetate.
• The reaction involves esterifying the carboxylic acid in the presence of a catalyst.
• By esterifying the oil, we can improve its properties for industrial use.
• The lab technician spent the afternoon esterifying various organic compounds.