terephthalic acid

 
Pronunciation: /ˌtɛrəfˈθalɪk/

noun

[mass noun] Chemistry
  • a crystalline organic acid used in making polyester resins and other polymers.
    • The para-isomer of phthalic acid; chemical formula: C6H4(COOH)2

Origin:

mid 19th century: blend of terebic 'of or from turpentine' (from terebinth) and phthalic acid