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Definition of phosphate

phosphate

/ˈfɑːsfeɪt/
phos · phate
Plural:phosphates
•
Adjective:phosphatic
•
Past Simple:phosphated
•
Past Participle:phosphated
•
Present Participle:phosphating
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phosphate Lexical Profile

phosphate Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A salt or ester of phosphoric acid, containing the PO43− anion or a related group, essential in biochemistry and widely used in agricultural fertilizers.

Example

"Excessive runoff of agricultural phosphate into nearby rivers can trigger harmful algal blooms."

2

American A carbonated soda fountain beverage made with fruit syrup, carbonated water, and a small amount of phosphoric acid for a tangy flavor.

Example

"At the vintage pharmacy counter, she ordered an old-fashioned cherry phosphate."

• verb

1

To treat, coat, or combine a substance or metal surface with a phosphate or phosphoric acid, typically to prevent corrosion or fertilize soil.

Example

"The manufacturer will phosphate the steel panels before painting to improve rust resistance."

• Rhymes for phosphate

• Nearby Words

phooey
phorminx
phormium
phosphate
phosphorus
photinia
photo

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from French 'phosphate' in the late 18th century, formed from 'phosphore' (phosphorus, from Ancient Greek 'phosphoros' meaning 'light-bringer') and the chemical suffix '-ate'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Phosphate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/phosphate
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