ammonium

noun

am·​mo·​ni·​um ə-ˈmō-nē-əm How to pronounce ammonium (audio)
: an ion NH4+ derived from ammonia by combination with a hydrogen ion and known in compounds (such as salts) that resemble in properties the compounds of the alkali metals

Examples of ammonium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
This protein powder is produced by a microorganism found in the Baltic Sea, which essentially feeds on hydrogen, carbon dioxide, ammonium, and oxygen in bioreactors. Christine Ro, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024 The stable isotope analysis can determine whether the nitrogen, predominantly ammonium, is from animal wastes. Nicole Kirchhoff, Sun Sentinel, 4 July 2024 Common ones to look for in ingredient labels include sodium laureth or lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, and cocamidopropyl betaine. Sarah Bradley, Parents, 20 May 2024 Harsh detergents: Shampoos with stripping ingredients, such as ammonium lauryl sulfate or ammonium laureth sulfate, can be harsh on the scalp and may worsen seborrheic dermatitis symptoms. April Benshosan, Verywell Health, 9 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for ammonium 

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from ammonia

First Known Use

1808, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ammonium was in 1808

Dictionary Entries Near ammonium

Cite this Entry

“Ammonium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ammonium. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

ammonium

noun
am·​mo·​ni·​um ə-ˈmō-nē-əm How to pronounce ammonium (audio)
: an ion that comes from the combination of ammonia with a hydrogen ion

Medical Definition

ammonium

noun
am·​mo·​ni·​um ə-ˈmō-nē-əm How to pronounce ammonium (audio)
: an ion NH4+ derived from ammonia by combination with a hydrogen ion and known in organic compounds (as quaternary ammonium compounds) and in compounds (as salts) that resemble in properties the compounds of the alkali metals

More from Merriam-Webster on ammonium

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