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

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

Read full article Among the materials found inside a vehicle on the property were 74 pounds of potassium nitrate, 15 pounds of aluminum powder, six pounds of magnesium and about 12 pounds of homemade aerial shells. —BostonGlobe.com, 15 Aug. 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