potassium nitrate

noun

: a crystalline salt KNO₃ that occurs as a product of nitrification in arable soils, is a strong oxidizer, and is used especially in making gunpowder, as a fertilizer, and in medicine

Examples of potassium nitrate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Investigators wrote in documents of finding more ominous items that Mr. Jabbar had left behind, including supplies that could be used for an explosive device: acetone, bottles of sulfuric acid and bags labeled as potassium nitrate. —Edgar Sandoval, New York Times, 4 Jan. 2025

As someone with sensitive teeth herself, Lacey looks for toothpastes that contain potassium nitrate to alleviate sensitivity. —Lacey Muinos, Health, 11 Dec. 2023

The brand offers this natural formula, which contains potassium nitrate to reduce sensitivity. —Lacey Muinos, Health, 11 Dec. 2023

The kit uses three whitening ingredients, amorphous calcium phosphate, fluoride and potassium nitrate, to help whiten teeth and comes in a range of concentrations. —Korin Miller, wsj.com, 20 Sep. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

potassium nitrate

noun

: a salt used in making gunpowder, as a fertilizer, and in medicine

Medical Definition

potassium nitrate

noun

: a crystalline salt KNO₃ that is a strong oxidizing agent and is used in medicine chiefly as a diuretic

called also niter, saltpeter