hydroxy

adjective

hy·​droxy hī-ˈdräk-sē How to pronounce hydroxy (audio)
: being or containing hydroxyl
especially : containing hydroxyl especially in place of hydrogen
—usually used in combination
hydroxyacetic acid

Examples of hydroxy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid, which gently sloughs away dead skin cells to reveal softer, smoother skin. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 9 Apr. 2026 Ey said many patients don’t realize there is a difference between kratom and hydroxy kratom. — Michael Slaten, Oc Register, 29 Aug. 2025 So do moisturizers containing lactic acid and anti-aging products with alpha-hydroxy acids. — Ryan Brennan may 1, Sacbee.com, 1 May 2026 This repeat Best of Beauty winner continues to wow us with its lightweight formula that resurfaces with alpha-hydroxy acids and hydrates with marula and shea butters. — Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hydroxy

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from hydroxyl

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hydroxy was in 1812

Phrases Containing hydroxy

Rhymes for hydroxy

See All Rhymes for hydroxy

Browse Nearby Words

hydroxonium
hydroxy
hydroxy acid
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hydroxy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hydroxy. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

hydroxy

adjective
hy·​droxy hī-ˈdräk-sē How to pronounce hydroxy (audio)
: being or containing hydroxyl
especially : containing hydroxyl in place of hydrogen
—often used in combination
hydroxybutyric acid
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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