nitrogen oxide

noun

: any of several oxides of nitrogen most of which are produced in combustion and are considered to be atmospheric pollutants: such as

Examples of nitrogen oxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The devices enabled vehicles to far exceed legal limits for nitrogen oxides, a pollutant that can cause respiratory illnesses and contributes to smog. CBS News, 23 Dec. 2025 Multiple studies have shown that burning methane gas produces nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and benzene that can worsen respiratory illnesses such as asthma and increase the risk of cancer. Alan K. Chen, The Conversation, 18 Dec. 2025 This exhaust system converts pollutants (hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides) into compounds that already make up our atmosphere (nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide and water). Clare Mulroy, USA Today, 12 Nov. 2025 Aside from potentially being carbon neutral, methanol promises much lower levels of sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides and soot particles, as well as being biodegradable and easy to store. New Atlas, 30 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nitrogen oxide

Word History

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nitrogen oxide was in 1868

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Cite this Entry

“Nitrogen oxide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nitrogen%20oxide. Accessed 28 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

nitrogen oxide

noun
: any of various oxides of nitrogen: as

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