Phthalic is an adjective describing anything related to or derived from phthalic acid, a dicarboxylic aromatic acid used in plastics and resins. In chemistry contexts it names the ortho-, meta-, or para- isomers of phthalic acid and their derivatives. The term appears in discussions of phthalate esters, industrial applications, and chemical nomenclature, often in compound adjectives like phthalic anhydride or phthalic acid derivatives.
Full pronunciation guide
