Picric \Pi"cric\, a. [Gr. ? bitter.] (Chem.)
   Pertaining to, or designating, a strong organic acid (called
   picric acid), intensely bitter.
   [1913 Webster]

   Note: Picric acid is obtained by treating phenol with strong
         nitric acid, as a brilliant yellow crystalline
         substance, C6H2(NO2)3.OH. It is used in dyeing silk
         and wool, and also in the manufacture of explosives, as
         it is very unstable when heated. Called also
         trinitrophenol, and formerly carbazotic acid.
         [1913 Webster]