Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Xeronic \Xe*ron"ic\, a. [Gr. ? dry + citraconic.] (Chem.)
   Pertaining to, or designating, an acid, {C8H12O4}, related to
   fumaric acid, and obtained from citraconic acid as an oily
   substance having a bittersweet taste; -- so called from its
   tendency to form its anhydride.