potassium

noun

po·​tas·​si·​um pə-ˈta-sē-əm 

often attributive

: a silver-white soft light low-melting monovalent metallic element of the alkali metal group that occurs abundantly in nature especially combined in minerals see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of potassium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Banana peels Banana peels are a rich source of potassium, which is crucial for plant growth and health, especially in promoting the development of flowers and fruits. —Debbie Wolfe, Popular Science, 26 June 2024

Garlic also has high levels of potassium, which is important for muscle contraction and heart function.6 Geddes-Bruce and Nazarian said that eating garlic,—especially in high doses—is not healthy or safe for everyone. —Alyssa Hui, Verywell Health, 25 June 2024

These drinks contain electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. —Katia Hetter, CNN, 25 June 2024

This fruit is a rich source of potassium and is packed with resistant starch. —Kathleen Felton, Health, 9 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from potassa potash, from English potash

First Known Use

circa 1807, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing potassium

• potassium-argon
• potassium bromide
• potassium carbonate
• potassium chlorate
• potassium chloride
• potassium cyanide
• potassium dichromate
• potassium hydroxide
• potassium iodide
• potassium nitrate
• potassium permanganate
• potassium sorbate
• potassium sulfate

Kids Definition

potassium

noun

po·​tas·​si·​um pə-ˈtas-ē-əm 

: a silver-white soft light metallic element that has a low melting point and occurs abundantly in nature especially combined in minerals see element

Medical Definition

potassium

noun

po·​tas·​si·​um pə-ˈtas-ē-əm 

: a silver-white soft light low-melting monovalent metallic element of the alkali metal group that occurs abundantly in nature especially combined in minerals

—symbol K see Chemical Elements Table