nitrite

noun

ni·​trite ˈnī-ˌtrīt How to pronounce nitrite (audio)
: a salt or ester of nitrous acid

Examples of nitrite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cut back on meats with nitrites, such as beef jerky, bacon, pepperoni and deli meats. — Eva Flowe updated May 6, Charlotte Observer, 6 May 2026 One key factor is that these meats are preserved with nitrates and nitrites, Lee-Kong said. — Sarah Garone, Health, 2 Apr. 2026 Cured Meats Meats may be cured for preservation by adding salt, spices, nitrites, and nitrates. — Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 27 Jan. 2026 Deli meats are often preserved with nitrates and nitrites, which can convert into carcinogenic compounds inside the body. — Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj, CNBC, 10 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nitrite

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nitrite was in 1788

Phrases Containing nitrite

Browse Nearby Words

nitrilo-
nitrite
nitrite group
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nitrite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nitrite. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

nitrite

noun
ni·​trite ˈnī-ˌtrīt How to pronounce nitrite (audio)
: a salt of a certain unstable nitrogen-containing acid that is known only in solution or in the form of its salts

Medical Definition

nitrite

noun
ni·​trite ˈnī-ˌtrīt How to pronounce nitrite (audio)
: a salt or ester of nitrous acid

More from Merriam-Webster on nitrite

Nglish: Translation of nitrite for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about nitrite

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