copper sulfate

noun

, Chemistry.

1. blue vitriol.

copper sulfate

1. A crystalline salt that is soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. In its anhydrous form it is white, and in its hydrous form it is blue. Copper sulfate is used in agriculture, textile dyeing, leather treatment, electroplating, and the manufacture of germicides. In its blue form it is also called blue vitriol. Chemical formula: CuSO 4 ·5H 2 O.

Word History and Origins

Origin of copper sulfate¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Silverwood Lake was treated with copper sulfate on Tuesday in an effort to control the algal bloom, agency officials said.

From Los Angeles Times

But if it bothers you, spray affected areas with 1 teaspoon of copper sulfate diluted in 8 gallons of water.

From Seattle Times

Otto said they were able to ward off fire blight last year by using sprays including copper sulfate and streptomycin.

From Seattle Times

One of wine’s paradoxes is that the most prized, expensive grapes come from regions prone to fungal diseases, which can only be treated with commercial pesticides or, for organic growers, applications of copper sulfate.

From The Guardian

I mix about 1.75 pounds of blue copper sulfate crystals with a gallon of hot water.

From Washington Post