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

Fiber can bind to excess cholesterol and help the body eliminate it, Mok explained, while potassium helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. —Danielle Zickl, Health, 5 Dec. 2025

Bananas are well known for their potassium content, and that nutrient may offer important heart-health benefits. —Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 5 Dec. 2025

Tips For Success Both cool-season and warm-season lawns require a balance of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K) as well as micronutrients applied through the course of the growing season. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 4 Dec. 2025

Iron supports energy production and oxygen transport, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure and supports normal muscle and nerve function. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 1 Dec. 2025

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