potassium nitrate

noun, Chemistry
1.
a crystalline compound, KNO 3 , produced by nitrification in soil, and used in gunpowders, fertilizers, and preservatives; saltpeter; niter.
Origin
1880-85
British Dictionary definitions for potassium nitrate

potassium nitrate

noun
1.
a colourless or white crystalline compound used in gunpowders, pyrotechnics, fertilizers, and as a preservative for foods, esp as a curing salt for ham, sausages, etc (E252). Formula: KNO3 Also called saltpetre, nitre
potassium nitrate in Science
potassium nitrate  
A transparent, white, crystalline compound and strong oxidizing agent. It is used in gunpowder and fireworks, in making glass, and in fertilizer. Also called saltpeter. Chemical formula: KNO3. See also niter.