nitrous

[nahy-truhs]

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.

nitrous

/ ˈnaɪtrəs /

adjective

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

nitrous

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

2. Compare nitric

Other Word Forms

• nonnitrous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitrous¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitrous¹

C17: from Latin nitrōsus full of natron

Example Sentences

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

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

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A mother says she feels "distraught" about young people illegally using nitrous oxide, after her daughter was killed by a speeding driver who had been inhaling the drug.

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In 2016 it was made illegal to supply or import nitrous oxide if it was likely to be consumed for its psychoactive effect, and in 2023 it was made a class C drug.

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A court case against England goalkeeper Khiara Keating has been dropped nearly a year after she pleaded not guilty to possessing canisters of nitrous oxide.

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