saponification
nounEtymology From French saponification, from saponifier (“saponify”).
1
Chemistry, Natural sciences, Physical sciences The hydrolysis of an ester under basic conditions to form an alcohol and the salt of the acid.
2
The reaction of a metallic alkali (base) with a fat or oil to form soap.
- Derived terms
- monosaponification, saponification number, saponification value