What does picric mean?
Picric is a specialized adjective meaning of, relating to, or resembling picric acid, a yellow, crystalline organic compound. In general use, the word most often appears in the established phrase “picric acid,” where it identifies the acid by its chemical name. It can also describe substances, compounds, or properties associated with picric acid. The adjective is most familiar in chemistry, laboratories, historical explosives and ammunition terminology, and chemical testing. Outside those contexts, picric is uncommon and may sound overly technical or obscure. Its etymology reflects the Greek word pikros, meaning “bitter,” which is appropriate because picric acid is notably bitter to the taste. Although picric can occasionally suggest a sharp or acrid quality by association, it is not a general-purpose adjective for describing an unpleasant taste.
adjectiveOf, relating to, or resembling picric acid. The term is chiefly used in chemistry and in the names of chemical compounds and related materials.
- Of or relating to picric acid or compounds derived from it.
"The laboratory used a picric solution to test for certain substances."
"Picric acid is a yellow crystalline compound traditionally used in chemical analysis."
"The researchers studied the picric properties of several organic compounds."
The word picric comes from the Greek for “bitter,” a fitting echo of picric acid’s famously sharp, intensely bitter character.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does picric come from?
Picric comes through French and New Latin from the Greek pikros, meaning “bitter.” The name reflects picric acid’s intensely bitter taste. Related chemical terms such as pikrate and picrotoxin were formed through the same picro- element, derived from that Greek root.
How picric is actually used
Picric is a specialized chemical term and is much less common in general English. It should not be used as a general synonym for bitter unless the context specifically concerns picric acid.
Easily confused with picric
Picric is a chemical adjective relating to picric acid, whereas pictorial means relating to pictures or visual representation.