blue vitriol

noun

, Chemistry, Mineralogy.

1. a salt, copper sulfate, CuSO 4 ⋅5H 2 O, occurring naturally as large transparent, deep-blue triclinic crystals, appearing in its anhydrous state as a white powder: used chiefly as a mordant, insecticide, fungicide, and in engraving.

blue vitriol

noun

1. the fully hydrated blue crystalline form of copper sulphate

blue vitriol

1. A blue, crystalline compound of copper sulfate. Blue vitriol is soluble in water, and is a very important industrial salt of copper. It is used in insecticides and germicides, in electrolytes for batteries, and in electroplating baths. Chemical formula: CuSO 4 ·5H 2 O.

Word History and Origins

Origin of blue vitriol¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

Put in that fifty pounds of blue vitriol and fill with water, throwing a little straw over the top.

From Project Gutenberg

For long, green vitriol was confused with blue vitriol, which generally occurs as an impurity in crude green vitriol.

From Project Gutenberg

It is prepared as follows: Dissolve four pounds of blue vitriol (blue stone, or copper sulphate) in several gallons of water.

From Project Gutenberg

For each pound of logwood, dissolve an ounce of blue vitriol in lukewarm water sufficient to wet the goods.

From Project Gutenberg

There is no trace; of sweetness in the constituents of sugar of lead, or of blueness in the constituents of blue vitriol.

From Project Gutenberg