Relating to or containing nitrogen, especially in a lower oxidation state. Commonly refers to nitrous oxide, known as laughing gas.
From Latin 'nitrosus' meaning full of natron (sodium carbonate), related to 'nitrum' meaning saltpeter. The chemical sense developed in the 18th century as understanding of nitrogen compounds advanced through early chemistry.
Nitrous oxide was discovered in 1772 but its anesthetic properties weren't utilized in surgery until the 1840s, despite decades of 'laughing gas parties' where people inhaled it for entertainment. It's still used in dentistry and as a performance enhancer in racing engines.
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