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citrate

American  
[si-treyt, sahy-] / ˈsɪ treɪt, ˈsaɪ- /

noun

Chemistry.
  1. a salt or ester of citric acid.


citrate British  
/ -rɪt, ˈsaɪtreɪt, ˈsɪtreɪt /

noun

  1. any salt or ester of citric acid. Salts of citric acid are used in beverages and pharmaceuticals

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

citrate Scientific  
/ sĭtrāt′ /
  1. A salt or ester of citric acid.


Etymology

Origin of citrate

First recorded in 1785–95; citr(ic acid) + -ate 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

If magnesium is combined with chloride, it is recommended for muscle tension and pre-menstrual cramps, while citrate and oxide blends are aimed at digestion and help with constipation.

From BBC Oct. 24, 2025

“American cheese is made with sodium citrate, an emulsifying salt that keeps the cheese creamy and smooth when melted,” she said.

From Salon Oct. 12, 2025

“Magnesium citrate is used before colonoscopies to really get the bowel going,” said Dr. Li.

From Los Angeles Times Mar. 6, 2024

Decades ago, to prepare for a colonoscopy, patients first had to clean out their colons using laxatives such as castor oil or magnesium citrate, sometimes over several days.

From Washington Post Jul. 31, 2022

"You've prescribed citrate of iron and quinine for everything I've ever had since I knew you," said Beth.

From The Beth Book Being a Study of the Life of Elizabeth Caldwell Maclure, a Woman of Genius by Grand, Sarah

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