pyr·uv·aldehyde \|pīˌrüv, |piˌrüv, |pirˌyüv+\noun Etymology:pyruv- + aldehyde : a yellow pungent volatile oil CH3COCHO that polymerizes readily and is formed as an intermediate in the metabolism or fermentation of carbohydrates and lactic acid — called also methylglyoxal, pyruvic aldehyde