nitrous
word
Definition
Relating to or containing nitrogen, especially referring to nitrous oxide, a colorless gas used medically for pain relief and in car engines for extra power.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly heard as 'nitrous oxide' (the gas); informal speech often shortens it to simply 'nitrous', especially in the context of cars. In chemistry, it means containing nitrogen in a lower oxidation state. Do not confuse with 'nitrate' or 'nitric'.
Example Sentences
The dentist used nitrous to help me relax.
basic
The race car uses nitrous for extra speed.
basic
Nitrous compounds are studied in chemistry.
basic
When he hit the button, the engine's nitrous kicked in and the car took off.
natural
They call it 'laughing gas,' but it's really just nitrous oxide.
natural
Some people add nitrous systems to their cars for a boost during races.
natural