potassium permanganate

noun

: a dark purple salt KMnO4 used as an oxidizer and disinfectant

Examples of potassium permanganate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The innovative product replaces potassium permanganate at the beginning of the process and can be applied directly to raw garments. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 14 July 2025 The residue bore traces of gold, potassium permanganate and copper, which Dr. Poliński thinks may have been left by a potion concocted to treat her ailments. Franz Lidz, New York Times, 5 Sep. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of potassium permanganate was in 1866

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Cite this Entry

“Potassium permanganate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/potassium%20permanganate. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

potassium permanganate

noun
-(ˌ)pər-ˈmaŋ-gə-ˌnāt
: a dark purple salt used especially as a disinfectant

Medical Definition

potassium permanganate

noun
: a dark purple salt KMnO4 used chiefly as an oxidizing agent and disinfectant

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