nitrous

American  

[nahy-truhs] / ˈnaɪ trəs /

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.

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nitrous British  

/ ˈnaɪtrəs /

adjective

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

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nitrous Scientific  

/ nī′trəs /

1. Containing nitrogen, especially nitrogen with a valence of 3.

2. Compare nitric

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Other Word Forms

• nonnitrous adjective

Etymology

Origin of nitrous

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

Example Sentences

However the increase in concentrations of heat-trapping greenhouse gases -- carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide -- "to their highest level in at least 800,000 years" has "upset this equilibrium", the WMO said.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

The centers are also adding nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, for intrauterine device insertions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

Additional surplus nitrogen in soil can produce nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas.

From Science Daily • Nov. 24, 2025

Ye has since sued his dentist for "recklessly" supplying Ye with "dangerous amounts of nitrous oxide".

From BBC • May 27, 2025

It wasn’t until 1846 that anyone got around to finding a practical use for nitrous oxide, as an anesthetic.

From "A Short History of Nearly Everything" by Bill Bryson