/ˈnaɪtˌreɪt, ˈnaɪtˌreɪt/ i

Definitions

1. noun

a compound of nitrogen with oxygen, often used as a fertilizer or in explosives

“The farmer applied a layer of nitrate to the soil to enhance crop growth.”

2. verb

to treat or preserve with a nitrate, especially to convert into nitrocellulose

“The manufacturer nitrated the cotton to make it more stable.”

3. noun

a salt of nitric acid, especially one used as a food preservative or in photography

“The recipe called for a pinch of nitrate to preserve the meat.”