saleratus

American  

[sal-uh-rey-tuhs] / ˌsæl əˈreɪ təs /

noun

1. Archaic. sodium bicarbonate used in cooking or baking; baking soda.

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saleratus British  

/ ˌsæləˈreɪtəs /

noun

1. another name for sodium bicarbonate, esp when used in baking powders

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Etymology

Origin of saleratus

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40; variant of Latin sal aerātus. sal, aerate

Example Sentences

Though no yeast was used, some early recipes called for saleratus, a precursor to baking soda that was manufactured in the late 1700s and often used in biscuit and cake recipes.

From New York Times

One pint best yellow corn-meal, 1 pint of butter-milk, 2 tablespoonfuls melted butter, 2 eggs and teaspoonful of salt, 1 teaspoonful saleratus; mix well, and bake at a brisk fire.

From Project Gutenberg

Treatment.—First wash the body with a strong lie of wood ashes or weak saleratus water, then with an infusion of lobelia.

From Project Gutenberg

It's only spring, yet they are thicker round here already than lumps of saleratus in those biscuit we've been talkin' about.

From Project Gutenberg

Same as Walnut or Hickory-nut; but use no molasses, and when done, set off and stir in one teaspoon saleratus; mark into sticks.

From Project Gutenberg