phosphorous

[ fos-fer-uhs, fos-fawr-uhs, -fohr- ]

adjective

, Chemistry.

1. containing trivalent phosphorus.

phosphorous

/ ˈfɒsfərəs /

adjective

1. of or containing phosphorus in the trivalent state

Other Words From

• non·phospho·rous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of phosphorous¹

First recorded in 1770–80; phosphor- + -ous

Example Sentences

He accused Israel of using white phosphorous among other ammunition and of wanting to render the area barren and abandoned.

From BBC

He says Israel fired white phosphorous shells at his land in the village of al-Bustan every day for over a month, robbing him of breath, and his livelihood.

From BBC

Fertilisers – like chicken manure - add additional nutrients like phosphorous and nitrogen to rivers.

From BBC

But even if your porridge is made with water, oats are a good source of manganese, phosphorous and zinc, as it is.

From Salon

Molasses is naturally rich in antioxidants, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous and vitamin B6.

From Salon