Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SALT-PE'TER, or SALT-PE'TRE, n. [salt and Gr. πετρος, a stone.]

A neutral salt formed by the nitric acid in combination with potassa, and hence denominated nitrate of potassa. It is found native in the East Indies, in Spain, in Naples and other places. It is also found on walls sheltered from rain, and is extracted by lixiviation from the earths under cellars, stables, barns, &c. Hooper. Lavoisir.