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

While the ash can add nutrients such as potassium and phosphorus that enhance fertility, the immediate impact is mostly harmful. —David Kitchen, The Conversation, 15 Apr. 2025

Pickle juice contains lots of sodium and some potassium. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 11 Apr. 2025

Bananas provide natural sugars and potassium to keep your energy levels steady, while granola adds complex carbs for long-lasting fuel. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Apr. 2025

Add More Avocados to Your Diet Avocados are a great source of magnesium and other essential nutrients like fiber, healthy fats, folate, and potassium. —Johna Burdeos, Health, 2 Apr. 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