saltpeter

or salt·pe·tre

[ sawlt-pee-ter ]

noun

1. the form of potassium nitrate, KNO 3 , that occurs naturally, used in the manufacture of fireworks, fluxes, gunpowder, etc.; niter.
2. Chile saltpeter.

saltpeter

/ sôlt′pē′tər /

1. See potassium nitrate

Word History and Origins

Origin of saltpeter¹

1275–1325; earlier salt peter; replacing Middle English sal peter, salpetre < Medieval Latin salpetrē, for Latin sal petrae salt of rock, so called because it commonly encrusts stones

Example Sentences

The detonations were produced by saltpeter stored in a warehouse.

From Time

If the Union can not be preserved without saltpeter, then let enough of this article be employed to secure the result.

From Project Gutenberg

They found a place where saltpeter was very thinly and erratically distributed.

From Project Gutenberg

He gave enormous doses of powerful drugs—sixty grains of gamboge, and from two to three ounces of saltpeter in a single day.

From Project Gutenberg

Since smoked and cured meats are used in making potted meats, saltpeter is quite frequently found in the latter.

From Project Gutenberg

Saltpeter was needed for her guns, alkali for her industries, and the chemist was called upon for help.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• vinegar