potassium

noun

po·​tas·​si·​um pə-ˈta-sē-əm 

often attributive

: a silver-white soft light low-melting monovalent metallic element of the alkali metal group that occurs abundantly in nature especially combined in minerals see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of potassium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Zhou believes that there is much more in the salt lakes that can be extracted apart from potassium and lithium. —Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 27 Apr. 2026

Both fruits also contribute potassium for healthy blood pressure, muscle function and nerve signaling. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2026

According to our experts, orange peels are full of nitrogen and potassium, which can help give young plants a nutrient boost. —Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 25 Apr. 2026

Research shows that sardines are an inexpensive source of omega-3s and other heart-healthy nutrients like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 24 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from potassa potash, from English potash

First Known Use

circa 1807, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing potassium

• potassium-argon
• potassium bromide
• potassium carbonate
• potassium chlorate
• potassium chloride
• potassium cyanide
• potassium dichromate
• potassium hydroxide
• potassium iodide
• potassium nitrate
• potassium permanganate
• potassium sorbate
• potassium sulfate

Kids Definition

potassium

noun

po·​tas·​si·​um pə-ˈtas-ē-əm 

: a silver-white soft light metallic element that has a low melting point and occurs abundantly in nature especially combined in minerals see element

Medical Definition

potassium

noun

po·​tas·​si·​um pə-ˈtas-ē-əm 

: a silver-white soft light low-melting monovalent metallic element of the alkali metal group that occurs abundantly in nature especially combined in minerals

—symbol K see Chemical Elements Table