nitrite

noun

ni·​trite ˈnī-ˌtrīt 

: a salt or ester of nitrous acid

Examples of nitrite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In laboratory experiments, for example, researchers have found that exposure to UVA, a type of ultraviolet light from the sun, triggers stores of nitrite in the skin to turn into nitric oxide. — Dominique Mosbergen, Time, 2 Nov. 2026

Researchers tested participants’ oral microbiomes, heart rate, blood pressure, plasma, salivary nitrate, and nitrite levels before each juice and mouthwash period. — Christina Manian, HEALTH, 7 Oct. 2026

The nitrites are then swallowed, and eventually turned into nitric oxide. — Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 1 Sep. 2026

Second, and even more important, nitrite helps prevent dangerous bacteria, including one that causes a deadly disease called botulism, from growing in meat. — Anna Dilger, The Conversation, 17 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing nitrite

• amyl nitrite
• butyl nitrite
• sodium nitrite

Kids Definition

nitrite

noun

ni·​trite ˈnī-ˌtrīt 

: a salt of a certain unstable nitrogen-containing acid that is known only in solution or in the form of its salts

Medical Definition

nitrite

noun

ni·​trite ˈnī-ˌtrīt 

: a salt or ester of nitrous acid