aqua regia

noun aqua re·gia \-ˈrē-j(ē-)ə\

Definition of AQUA REGIA

: a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids that dissolves gold or platinum

See aqua regia defined for kids

New Latin, literally, royal water

First Known Use: 1617

Medical Dictionary

noun aqua re·gia \-ˈrē-j(ē-)ə\

: a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids that dissolves gold or platinum—called also nitrohydrochloric acid

Next Word in the Dictionary: aquarellePrevious Word in the Dictionary: aquardienteAll Words Near: aqua regia

What made you want to look up aqua regia? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears