nitrite
Americannoun
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A salt or ester of nitrous acid, containing the group NO 2. Nitrites are an important component of the nitrogen cycle and are used as food preservatives.
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Compare nitrate
Etymology
Origin of nitrite
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.
Nitrate naturally accumulates in vegetables from the soil, but it does not benefit the body until bacteria in the mouth convert it into nitrite.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 15, 2026
Scientists have long known that oral bacteria are essential for converting nitrate into nitrite.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 15, 2026
Sodium nitrite was associated with a 32% higher risk of prostate cancer.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 27, 2026
The researchers determined that this metallic copper helps add hydrogen to nitrite ions, which leads to ammonia formation.
From Science Daily ● Nov. 22, 2025
Manchester brown introduced, the second azo-colour; leading to the manufacture of sodium nitrite, and of dinitrobenzene.
From Coal and What We Get from It by Raphael Meldola
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