phosphate

noun phos·phate \ˈfäs-ˌfāt\

chemistry : a salt or compound that has phosphorus in it and that is used especially in products (called fertilizers) that help plants grow

Full Definition of PHOSPHATE

a (1) : a salt or ester of a phosphoric acid (2) : the trivalent anion PO₄³⁻ derived from phosphoric acid H₃PO₄

b : an organic compound of phosphoric acid in which the acid group is bound to nitrogen or a carboxyl group in a way that permits useful energy to be released (as in metabolism)

: an effervescent drink of carbonated water with a small amount of phosphoric acid flavored with fruit syrup

: a phosphatic material used for fertilizers

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Origin of PHOSPHATE

French, from acide phosphorique phosphoric acid

First Known Use: 1788

Medical Dictionary

phosphate

noun phos·phate \ˈfäs-ˌfāt\

Medical Definition of PHOSPHATE

a : a salt or ester of a phosphoric acid b : the trivalent anion PO₄³⁻ derived from phosphoric acid H₃PO₄

: an organic compound of phosphoric acid in which the acid group is bound to nitrogen or a carboxyl group in a way that permits useful energy to be released (as in metabolism)