potassium

noun

po·​tas·​si·​um pə-ˈta-sē-əm 

often attributive

: a silver-white soft light low-melting monovalent metallic element of the alkali metal group that occurs abundantly in nature especially combined in minerals see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of potassium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

They’re also filled with nutrients beyond vitamin C, including folate, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and fiber. — Christina Manian, Health, 23 July 2026

Quinoa is also rich in fiber, as well as magnesium, iron, folate, and potassium, per Zinn. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 22 July 2026

Your Heart Health Is Supported Peaches are rich in potassium and antioxidants. — Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 22 July 2026

Once the bulbs begin to swell, switch to a high-potassium formula. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 22 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from potassa potash, from English potash

First Known Use

circa 1807, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing potassium

• potassium-argon
• potassium bromide
• potassium carbonate
• potassium chlorate
• potassium chloride
• potassium cyanide
• potassium dichromate
• potassium hydroxide
• potassium iodide
• potassium nitrate
• potassium permanganate
• potassium sorbate
• potassium sulfate

Kids Definition

potassium

noun

po·​tas·​si·​um pə-ˈtas-ē-əm 

: a silver-white soft light metallic element that has a low melting point and occurs abundantly in nature especially combined in minerals see element

Medical Definition

potassium

noun

po·​tas·​si·​um pə-ˈtas-ē-əm 

: a silver-white soft light low-melting monovalent metallic element of the alkali metal group that occurs abundantly in nature especially combined in minerals

—symbol K see Chemical Elements Table