Aliphatic

Pronunciation

• US IPA: /ælɪˈfætɪk/

Origin

From Ancient Greek ἄλειφαρ (aleiphar, "oil, ointment").

Full definition of aliphatic

Adjective

1. (organic chemistry) Of a class of organic compounds in which the carbon atoms are arranged in an open chain.

Noun

1. A compound of this type.
2. (chiefly in the plural) A petroleum fraction containing no aromatic compounds