a. [ Quadri- + basic. ] (Chem.) Same as Tetrabasic. [ 1913 Webster ]
a. [ Pref. tri- + basic. ] (Chem.) Capable of neutralizing three molecules of a monacid base, or their equivalent; having three hydrogen atoms capable of replacement by basic elements on radicals; -- said of certain acids; thus, citric acid is a tribasic acid. [ 1913 Webster ]