nitride

1 of 2

noun

ni·​tride ˈnī-ˌtrīd 

: a binary compound of nitrogen with a more electropositive element

nitride

2 of 2

verb

nitrided; nitriding

transitive verb

: to case-harden (a material, such as steel) by causing the surface to absorb nitrogen

Examples of nitride in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The work focuses particularly on gallium nitride (GaN) devices, which are already widely used in high-performance radar, electronic warfare, and communications systems. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 15 Aug. 2026

Boron nitride gives the formula its silky slip and creates a blurring effect, while avocado oil adds conditioning moisture so a matte doesn’t look like skin is parched. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 14 Aug. 2026

In this form, boron nitride becomes what scientists call a superhard material, second in hardness to diamond. — Robin MacAluso, The Conversation, 3 Aug. 2026

His lab is working on heat-tolerant materials like silicon nitride and titanium nitride, aiming for a sail that can withstand temperatures of around 1,000 degrees Celsius (that's 1,832 degrees Fahrenheit) for long enough to pull off a sun-dive. — Kiona N. Smith, Space.com, 31 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

Noun

1850, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1928, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing nitride

• silicon nitride

Medical Definition

nitride

noun

ni·​tride ˈnī-ˌtrīd 

: a binary compound of nitrogen with a more electropositive element