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

Minerals: Common minerals include calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and potassium, essential nutrients for bone health, muscle function, and other vital processes. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 22 Jan. 2025

The potassium in Gatorade regulates muscle contractions. —Bryn Beeder, The Conversation, 21 Jan. 2025

Individuals with uncontrolled blood sugar, diabetes, or kidney issues should avoid adrenal cocktails due to their high sugar and potassium content. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 20 Jan. 2025

Beloved for its nutty flavor, chewy texture, availability (find it in any grocery store), and rich fiber and potassium content, barley—even the hulled variety—is considered a healthy, whole grain. —Joe Sevier, Bon Appétit, 10 Jan. 2025

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