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1. A cyclic intramolecular ester derived from a hydroxy acid.
   "Lactones are formed by intramolecular esterification of the corresponding hydroxycarboxylic acids, which takes place spontaneously when the ring that is formed is five- or six-membered."
    
2. One of a series of organic compounds, regarded as anhydrides of certain hydroxy acids. In general, they are colourless liquids, having a weak aromatic odour. They are so called because the typical lactone is derived from lactic acid

Derived forms: lactones

Type of: ester

Encyclopedia: Lactone