Acetamide (CH₃CONH₂) is was identified in 2006 as reported by Hollis at al. The detection was made using the 100 m Green Bank Telescope. It was observed via the rotational spectrum of the molecule toward Sgr B2(N).

Acetamide is a close cousin of acetic acid, where the NH₂ is exchanged with OH. In keeping with organic chemisty's tendency toward multiplicitous names, it is also known as acetic acid amide, ethanamide, acetimidic acid, and methanecarboxamide. Acetamide is rarely found in mineral form in coal mine waste piles.