How Do You Spell MECONIC?

Pronunciation: [mɛkˈɒnɪk] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Meconic" is a bit tricky, but the IPA phonetic transcription can help clarify it. The first syllable is pronounced "mɛk" with a short "e" sound, followed by "oh" in the second syllable, pronounced "oʊ". The third syllable is pronounced "nik" with a long "i" sound. So, in total, "Meconic" is pronounced "mɛk-oh-nik". This word refers to a type of acid found in opium, and it's important to spell it correctly to avoid confusion or miscommunication.

MECONIC Meaning and Definition

1. Meconic, in chemistry and biochemistry, refers to a compound known as meconic acid, a crystalline substance that occurs naturally in plants and is primarily found in the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). It is classified as a dicarboxylic acid since it contains two carboxyl (-COOH) groups in its molecular structure.

   Meconic acid plays a significant role in the biosynthesis of morphine and other related alkaloids found in opium. It serves as an intermediate compound in the metabolic pathway leading to the formation of these natural products. Additionally, meconic acid has been identified as an essential marker and characteristic component of opium that can be used to differentiate and identify its presence.

   In terms of properties, meconic acid is most commonly observed as a white crystalline solid or fine powder, with a slightly acidic taste. Its solubility in water is relatively high, which allows it to dissolve readily in aqueous solutions. It can also form salts by reacting with various bases.

   Due to its connection to opium and alkaloid metabolism, meconic acid has garnered significance in forensic science. Its detection in biological samples, such as urine or blood, can be used as an indicator of opiate exposure or heroin abuse. In analytical chemistry, meconic acid is commonly utilized as a reference compound for identification in laboratory analysis and forensic investigations.

2. Belonging to the poppy; applied to a peculiar acid contained in opium.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MECONIC

• mecobic
• mecohic
• mecoic
• Meco.ic
• Mecooic

Etymology of MECONIC

The word "meconic" is derived from the Greek word "mekon" (μηκων), meaning "poppy". It is related to "mekonion" (μηκώνιον), which refers specifically to opium or the juice of the poppy. The term "meconic" is used to describe a chemical compound called "meconic acid" (C7H6O5), which was first isolated from opium poppy sap in the 19th century.