natron

noun

na·​tron ˈnā-ˌträn How to pronounce natron (audio) -trən How to pronounce natron (audio)
: a hydrous native sodium carbonate used in ancient times in embalming, in ceramic pastes, and as a cleansing agent

Examples of natron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Read More: Why Road Salt is Bad for the Environment Ancient Egyptians also made use of natron, a naturally occurring salt, in the process of mummification. — Sean Mowbray, Discover Magazine, 7 May 2024 In addition to a text called The Ritual of Embalming, Greek historian Herodotus, in his Histories, mentions the use of natron to dehydrate the body. — Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 6 Sep. 2023

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French naitron, natron, borrowed (by uncertain mediation) from Arabic naṭrūn, borrowed from Greek nítron niter

First Known Use

1684, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of natron was in 1684

Rhymes for natron

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natron
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Cite this Entry

“Natron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/natron. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about natron

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