nitro

¹

[ nahy-troh ]

adjective

1. Chemistry. containing the nitro group.

noun

1. nitroglycerin.

nitro-

²

1. a combining form used in the names of chemical compounds in which the nitro group is present:

   nitroglycerin.

nitro-

¹

combining_form

1. indicating that a chemical compound contains a nitro group, -NO 2

   nitrobenzene

2. indicating that a chemical compound is a nitrate ester

   nitrocellulose

nitro

²

/ ˈnaɪtrəʊ /

noun

1. slang.
   short for nitroglycerine

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitro¹

First recorded in 1855–60; nitro-

Origin of nitro²

Combining form of Greek nítron. See niter

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitro¹

from Greek nitron natron

Example Sentences

The cars are rockets on wheels, nitro fuel feeding flame-spewing 10,000-horsepower motors that generate six G-forces and speeds of more than 300 mph in a matter of seconds.

From Los Angeles Times

Now he’s trying to pay forward that help and support by renting Pritchett, a top-alcohol racer and longtime nitro crew member, the seat of his dragster for his top fuel debut.

From Los Angeles Times

For now, the Irwindale Speedway & Drasgstrip still has a roster of activities and events scheduled before it closes, including events such as Thursday Night Thunders, Night of Destruction on Nov. 2, and Nitro Revival on Nov. 8 and 9.

From Los Angeles Times

It also offers a paid membership called Nitro, with benefits including high-quality video streaming and custom emojis, for a $9.99 monthly subscription.

From BBC

I show everybody I can “Laser Cats” as I am a huge “SNL” nerd, and although they don’t laugh, I know I have Nitro and Admiral Spaceship on my side to make me laugh.

From Los Angeles Times