citrate

American  

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

noun

Chemistry.

1. a salt or ester of citric acid.

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citrate British  

/ -rɪt, ˈsaɪtreɪt, ˈsɪtreɪt /

noun

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

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citrate Scientific  

/ sĭt′rāt′ /

1. A salt or ester of citric acid.

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Etymology

Origin of citrate

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

Example Sentences

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

After the egg and citrate are mixed, 1000 units of penicillin and 1000 micrograms of streptomycin are added per milliliter of extender.

From Preservation of Bull Semen at Sub-Zero Temperatures by Friedman, M. E.