nitrous

[ nahy-truhs ]

adjective

, Chemistry.

1. pertaining to compounds obtained from niter, usually containing less oxygen than the corresponding nitric compounds.
2. containing nitrogen, usually in the trivalent state.

nitrous

/ ˈnaɪtrəs /

adjective

1. of, derived from, or containing nitrogen, esp in a low valency state

nitrous

/ nī′trəs /

1. Containing nitrogen, especially nitrogen with a valence of 3.
2. Compare nitric

Other Words From

• non·nitrous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitrous¹

First recorded in 1595–1605, nitrous is from the Latin word nitrōsus full of natron. See nitroso-

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitrous¹

C17: from Latin nitrōsus full of natron

Example Sentences

The WMO reports historically high levels of the greenhouse gasses methane and nitrous oxide, which like carbon dioxide are common byproducts of human industry.

From Salon

In a statement read to the court, a bomb disposal officer said the device contained nitrous oxide cylinders.

From BBC

The employee alleged that when the “Heartless” rapper began to let go of much of Yeezy’s leadership team in or around May 2024, Ye also got titanium teeth and consumed nitrous oxide, which the employee “speculates led to some of the erratic behavior,” the complaint said.

From Los Angeles Times

Farming is currently responsible for around 12% of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions, predominantly nitrous oxide from fertilisers and manure and methane from ruminant livestock, as well as carbon dioxide - to a much lesser extent - from energy and fuel.

From BBC

The latest government figures show total agricultural greenhouse gas emissions have decreased, with nitrous oxide emissions down by 23% and methane down by 15% between 1990 and 2022.

From BBC