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

In addition to being a solid source of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and fiber, this fruit can be consumed fresh, dried, cooked, baked, or in beverages like tea. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 27 June 2025

As for other macronutrients, cassava has more vitamin C, while potatoes contain more potassium. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 26 June 2025

This tropical fruit also supplies energy-supporting B vitamins and smaller amounts of magnesium and potassium. 15. —Cynthia Sass, Health, 23 June 2025

Once in flowerbeds and vegetable gardens, the plant depletes potassium necessary for plant health and smothers low-growing plants. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 11 June 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