\Phthal"ic\, a. [Naphthalene + -ic.] (Chem.) Pertaining to, or designating, a dibasic acid obtained by the oxidation of naphthalene and allied substances. {Phthalic acid} (Chem.), a white crystalline substance, {C6H4.(CO2H)2}, analogous to benzoic acid, and employed in the brilliant dyestuffs called the phthaleins.