natron

noun

na·​tron ˈnā-ˌträn  -trən 

: a hydrous native sodium carbonate used in ancient times in embalming, in ceramic pastes, and as a cleansing agent

Examples of natron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to a text called The Ritual of Embalming, Herodotus, in his Histories, mentions the use of natron to dehydrate the body. — ArsTechnica, 5 Feb. 2026

In addition to a text called The Ritual of Embalming, Greek historian Herodotus, in his Histories, mentions the use of natron to dehydrate the body. — Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 6 Sep. 2023

At the ends of the beds, the scientists found gutters, as well as clay pots to hold organs and viscera, and various other instruments, including linens and natron salt. — Matt Hrodey, Discover Magazine, 1 June 2023

After being immersed in natron, corpses were treated with the sticky mixtures to seal the skin, blocking decay and decomposition by bacteria. — Byandrew Curry, science.org, 1 Feb. 2023

The body was covered with a natron treatment for 70 days, after which the cedar oil was cleaned out and the body was left as skin and bones. — Donna Sarkar, Discover Magazine, 9 Mar. 2021

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French naitron, natron, borrowed (by uncertain mediation) from Arabic naṭrūn, borrowed from Greek nítron niter

First Known Use

1684, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for natron

• betatron