# nitride

/ˈnaɪtɹaɪd/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nitride
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a chemical compound made of nitrogen joined to another element, often a metal. Many nitrides are very hard and resist heat.

For teachers: a binary compound of nitrogen with a less electronegative element, typically a metal, boron, or silicon. Many exhibit high hardness and thermal stability.

## Examples

- Titanium nitride gives this drill its gold coating.
- The factory uses boron nitride for cutting tools because it stays hard at high heat.
- Gallium nitride now powers fast chargers and blue LEDs, a shift that made bright, energy-saving lighting cheap enough for everyday use.

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