ni·trate 
(nītrāt′, -trĭt)
(nītrāt′, -trĭt)n.
1. The univalent anionic group NO3, derived from nitric acid, or a compound containing this group.
2. Fertilizer consisting of sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, or ammonium nitrate.
tr.v. ni·trat·ed, ni·trat·ing, ni·trates
To treat with nitric acid or a nitrate, usually to change (an organic compound) into a nitrate.
ni·tration n.
nitra′tor n.