potassium nitrate

noun

: a crystalline salt KNO3 that occurs as a product of nitrification in arable soils, is a strong oxidizer, and is used especially in making gunpowder, as a fertilizer, and in medicine

Examples of potassium nitrate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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As someone with sensitive teeth herself, Lacey looks for toothpastes that contain potassium nitrate to alleviate sensitivity. Lacey Muinos, Health, 11 Dec. 2023 The brand offers this natural formula, which contains potassium nitrate to reduce sensitivity. Lacey Muinos, Health, 11 Dec. 2023 The kit uses three whitening ingredients, amorphous calcium phosphate, fluoride and potassium nitrate, to help whiten teeth and comes in a range of concentrations. Korin Miller, wsj.com, 20 Sep. 2023 Read full article Among the materials found inside a vehicle on the property were 74 pounds of potassium nitrate, 15 pounds of aluminum powder, six pounds of magnesium and about 12 pounds of homemade aerial shells. BostonGlobe.com, 15 Aug. 2023 See all Example Sentences for potassium nitrate 

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of potassium nitrate was in 1866

Dictionary Entries Near potassium nitrate

Cite this Entry

“Potassium nitrate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/potassium%20nitrate. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

potassium nitrate

noun
: a salt used in making gunpowder, as a fertilizer, and in medicine

Medical Definition

potassium nitrate

noun
: a crystalline salt KNO3 that is a strong oxidizing agent and is used in medicine chiefly as a diuretic

called also niter, saltpeter

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