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

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Etymology

Origin of nitrous

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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

nitrous

Los Angeles officials began discussing a ban after the city of Rialto became the first to restrict certain sales of nitrous oxide in 2017.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 13, 2026

Emissions of carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide and dangerous particulate matter increased by 196%, 111%, and 139% respectively.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 7, 2026

The smaller surviving amount of nitrous oxide could have supported prebiotic chemical reactions.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 2, 2026

What is nitrous oxide and why is it being banned?

From BBC ● Jul. 27, 2026

Chlorine is green and is deadly; nitrous oxide is colorless and makes people giggle.

From "Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea" by Charles Seife

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