a. [ L. adeps, adipis, fat. ] (Chem.) Pertaining to, or derived from, fatty or oily substances; -- applied to certain acids obtained from fats by the action of nitric acid. [ 1913 Webster ]

an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid (HO.CO.(CH2)4.CO.OH), containing six carbon atoms in a linear chain. It is found in beet juice. It is used in the manufacture of synthetic plastics such as Nylon, as well as other products. [ PJC ]