Epsom salt

noun

1. Often Epsom salts. Chemistry, Pharmacology. hydrated magnesium sulfate, MgSO 4 ⋅7H 2 O, occurring as small colorless crystals: used in fertilizers, the dyeing of fabrics, leather tanning, etc., and in medicine chiefly as a cathartic.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Epsom salt¹

1760–70; after Epsom; so called from its presence in the local mineral water

Example Sentences

Epsom salt or baking soda soaks have also been helpful for some people.

From Seattle Times

I’m a bathing beauty and an ex-Broadway showgirl, so I like to soak in the bath with Epsom salt.

From New York Times

People associate Epsom salt with our grandmothers or our great-grandmothers.

From New York Times

Everybody can find Epsom salt at the grocery store.”

From Washington Post

Some swear by float therapy, a unique experience where 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt transforms the density of the water, effortlessly suspending you in a warm bath.

From Seattle Times