phosphate

n. a chemical salt or liquid made from phosphoric acid, found in rocks and living things.

n. any salt or ester of phosphoric acid, occurring naturally in minerals and as a vital component of biological molecules like DNA.

“The scientist measured the level of phosphate in the water sample.”

“High concentrations of dissolved phosphate in the lake were attributed to industrial runoff from the nearby processing plant.”

Technical

n. a substance added to soil to help crops and plants grow better.

n. any fertilizer containing phosphate compounds, used to stimulate root development and flowering in agriculture.

“Farmers use phosphate to make sure their corn grows strong.”

“The agricultural cooperative ordered several tons of rock phosphate to prepare the fields for the spring planting season.”

n. a type of fizzy, flavored drink that was popular in the past.

n. a carbonated soft drink containing a small amount of phosphoric acid, typically flavored with fruit syrup.

“The old shop still serves a cherry phosphate at the soda fountain.”

“The menu at the vintage diner featured a variety of phosphates, a nostalgic nod to early twentieth-century American beverage culture.”

American English · Archaic

v. to cover a surface, like metal, with a chemical layer to protect it.

v. to treat or coat a surface with a phosphate or phosphoric acid, usually to provide corrosion resistance.

“The factory must phosphate the steel parts to prevent them from rusting.”

“The automotive components are phosphated prior to painting to ensure maximum adhesion and long-term durability against environmental wear.”

Technical