nitrite

noun

ni·​trite ˈnī-ˌtrīt How to pronounce nitrite (audio)
: a salt or ester of nitrous acid

Examples of nitrite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Chemical preservatives, including nitrates and nitrites, are often used during the curing process. Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 8 Dec. 2024 Curing, often using nitrates and nitrites — preservatives that prevent spoilage and preserve meat’s pinkish color — and salt, is one of the more common ways food manufacturers extend the life of modern cold cuts. Keren Landman, Vox, 7 Dec. 2018 However, it is processed meat and often contains preservatives, like nitrites, which have been linked to adverse health effects. Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 19 Sep. 2024 Extremely high levels of nitrates and nitrites have been shown to cause cancers. Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 27 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for nitrite 

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nitrite was in 1788

Dictionary Entries Near nitrite

Cite this Entry

“Nitrite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nitrite. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

nitrite

noun
ni·​trite ˈnī-ˌtrīt How to pronounce nitrite (audio)
: a salt of a certain unstable nitrogen-containing acid that is known only in solution or in the form of its salts

Medical Definition

nitrite

noun
ni·​trite ˈnī-ˌtrīt How to pronounce nitrite (audio)
: a salt or ester of nitrous acid

More from Merriam-Webster on nitrite

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