sodium bicarbonate

noun

: a white crystalline weakly alkaline salt NaHCO₃ used especially in baking powders and fire extinguishers and in medicine as an antacid

called also baking soda, bicarbonate of soda

Examples of sodium bicarbonate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Why Baking Soda Is An Effective Cleaner Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a natural abrasive that can gently scrub away surface residues like dirt, wax, and pesticide residue without damaging the delicate skin of fresh apples. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 24 Aug. 2025

The capsules rely on the bubbling reaction of water and sodium bicarbonate to build pressure inside the capsule after it is swallowed. —Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Aug. 2025

Baking Soda and Cornstarch Many commercially available deodorants contain baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and cornstarch. —Sarah Hudgens, Health, 29 July 2025

Cyclists have used sodium bicarbonate for years to boost performance by helping mitigate the effects of lactic acid, making the legs feel less painful, but a historic issue has been stomach issues and slow absorption rates. —Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 12 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sodium bicarbonate

noun

: a white weakly alkaline salt used especially in baking powders and fire extinguishers and in medicine as an antacid

called also baking soda, bicarbonate of soda

Medical Definition

sodium bicarbonate

noun

: a white crystalline weakly alkaline salt NaHCO₃ used in baking powders and in medicine especially as an antacid

called also baking soda, bicarb, bicarbonate of soda, sodium acid carbonate