nitrous

American  

[nahy-truhs] / ˈnaɪ trəs /

adjective

Chemistry.

1. pertaining to compounds obtained from niter, usually containing less oxygen than the corresponding nitric compounds.

2. containing nitrogen, usually in the trivalent state.

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nitrous British  

/ ˈnaɪtrəs /

adjective

1. of, derived from, or containing nitrogen, esp in a low valency state

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nitrous Scientific  

/ nī′trəs /

1. Containing nitrogen, especially nitrogen with a valence of 3.

2. Compare nitric

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Other Word Forms

• nonnitrous adjective

Etymology

Origin of nitrous

First recorded in 1595–1605, nitrous is from the Latin word nitrōsus full of natron. See nitroso-

Example Sentences

Widespread fertilizer use could lead to harmful side effects, including emissions of nitrous oxide, a powerful greenhouse gas.

From Science Daily

"This is because gases such as nitrogen oxides and nitrous oxide are produced as part of the nitrogen cycle. These can be released into the atmosphere through conversion processes and alter or disrupt climate processes."

From Science Daily

Patients living with major depressive disorder, including those who have not improved with commonly prescribed antidepressants, may benefit from short-term nitrous oxide treatment, according to a large meta-analysis led by the University of Birmingham.

From Science Daily

Additional surplus nitrogen in soil can produce nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas.

From Science Daily

Meanwhile, fertiliser use emits nitrous oxide -- the third-most-potent greenhouse gas after methane and carbon dioxide.

From Barron's