Lexic.us

Definition of Saltpetre

1. Noun. (KNO3) used especially as a fertilizer and explosive.

Definition of Saltpetre

1. [n -S]

Medical Definition of Saltpetre

1. Potassium nitrate; niter, a white crystalline substance, KNO3, having a cooling saline taste, obtained by leaching from certain soils in which it is produced by the process of nitrification (see Nitrification, 2). It is a strong oxidizer, is the chief constituent of gunpowder, and is also used as an antiseptic in curing meat, and in medicine as a diuretic, diaphoretic, and refrigerant. Chili salpeter, nitric acid; sometimes so called because made from saltpeter. Origin: F. Salpetre, NL. Sal petrae, literally, rock salt, or stone salt; Salt, and Petrify. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998)

Lexicographical Neighbors of Saltpetre

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