phosphate

noun

phos·​phate ˈfäs-ˌfāt How to pronounce phosphate (audio)
1
a(1)
: a salt or ester of a phosphoric acid
(2)
: the trivalent anion PO43− derived from phosphoric acid H3PO4
b
: an organic compound of phosphoric acid in which the acid group is bound to nitrogen or a carboxyl group in a way that permits useful energy to be released (as in metabolism)
2
: an effervescent drink of carbonated water with a small amount of phosphoric acid flavored with fruit syrup
3
: a phosphatic material used for fertilizers

Examples of phosphate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On the menu: smashburgers, french fries, tater tots, milkshakes (traditional and boozy), floats, phosphate sodas, and a smattering of specialty cocktails, beer and wine. David Hudnall updated July 3, Kansas City Star, 3 July 2025 That's compared with other battery chemistries available today, particularly lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells. Emily Forlini, PC Magazine, 13 May 2025 The region notably has phosphate mines and fish-rich waters. Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 May 2025 The Summit Venture, riding high in the water and thus more vulnerable to the wind, was entering the port for a load of phosphate when a sudden, blinding squall engulfed it. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for phosphate

Word History

Etymology

French, from acide phosphorique phosphoric acid

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Time Traveler
The first known use of phosphate was in 1788

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Cite this Entry

“Phosphate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phosphate. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

phosphate

noun
phos·​phate ˈfäs-ˌfāt How to pronounce phosphate (audio)
1
: a salt of a phosphoric acid
2
: a drink made of carbonated water and fruit syrup with a little phosphoric acid added for tang

Medical Definition

phosphate

noun
phos·​phate ˈfäs-ˌfāt How to pronounce phosphate (audio)
1
a
: a salt or ester of a phosphoric acid
b
: the trivalent anion PO43− derived from phosphoric acid H3PO4
2
: an organic compound of phosphoric acid in which the acid group is bound to nitrogen or a carboxyl group in a way that permits useful energy to be released (as in metabolism)

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