formic

Everyday

1. (science) To do with ants. tree →
2. (chemistry) «Formic acid» is a stinging acid made by ants and stinging nettles; it causes the itchy, burning feeling of an ant bite or nettle sting. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons about acids and alkalis: nettle and ant stings contain formic acid; some people rub on a mild alkali (like soap) to ease them, and a dock leaf is a traditional remedy. Some birds sit on ant nests so the ants spray formic acid that cleans their feathers («anting»).

Examples

• Ants spray formic acid to defend themselves. tree →
• Nettle stings contain formic acid. tree →
• The burning feeling of an ant bite comes from formic acid. tree →
• Formic acid got its name from the Latin word for ant. tree →
• Birds sometimes use formic acid from ants to clean their feathers. tree →

Note

Used almost only in «formic acid». From Latin «formica», ant. Not related to «form» or «formal».