An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A chemical compound, potassium nitrate, KNO₃. It is a naturally occurring mineral source of nitrogen, and is used in the manufacture of fireworks, fluxes, gunpowder, etc.

Etymology (EN): M.E. sal peter, salpetre, from O.Fr. salpetre, from M.L. sal petrae “salt of rock,” from L. sal, → salt

• petra “rock, stone.”

Etymology (PE): Šuré, related to šur “salty;” Mid.Pers. šôr “salty,” šorag “salt land;” cf. Skt. ksurá- “razor, sharp knife;” Gk. ksuron “razor;” PIE base *kseu- “to rub, whet.”