Meaning of acylation involves a chemical reaction where an acyl group (R-CO-) is attached to another molecule, usually replacing a hydrogen atom. This group typically originates from an acid (like acetic acid or benzoic acid).

The Friedel-Crafts acylation is a specific type of acylation used to introduce an acyl group into an aromatic ring, such as benzene. This is done using an acyl chloride and a Lewis acid catalyst, resulting in an aromatic ketone.

Acylation involves adding an acyl group (R-CO-), which is generally more stable and less prone to rearrangements than alkyl groups (R-) added during alkylation. Acylation often increases the electron-withdrawing properties of a compound, whereas alkylation can increase electron-donating properties.