Pronunciation: ˌ a-s ə -( ˌ )t ō - ə - ' s ē -tik-, ə - ˌ s ē -t ō -
Function: noun
Etymology: part translation of German Azetessigsäure, from azet- acet- + Essigsäure acetic acid
Date: circa 1900
: an unstable acid C 4 H 6 O 3 that is a ketone body found in abnormal quantities in the blood and urine in some conditions (as diabetes)