What does nitride mean?
In chemistry, a nitride is a binary compound containing nitrogen and another element, most often a metal. Its name reflects the combination of “nitrogen” with the chemical suffix “-ide.” In these compounds, nitrogen generally has an oxidation state of −3, distinguishing nitrides from oxygen-containing compounds such as nitrites and nitrates. The properties of nitrides vary considerably with the other element involved. Some, including boron nitride, are ceramic materials valued for thermal stability, electrical insulation, or unusual structural properties. Others, such as certain transition-metal nitrides, exhibit notable magnetic or superconducting behaviour. As a result, nitrides occur in metallurgy, semiconductor research, protective coatings, and advanced materials. The term belongs primarily to technical chemistry and is rarely encountered outside scientific, engineering, or industrial contexts.
nounA binary compound of nitrogen with another element, especially a metal. In a nitride, nitrogen normally has an oxidation state of −3.
- A binary chemical compound containing nitrogen and another element, especially a metal.
"Boron nitride is a ceramic compound known for its thermal stability and insulating properties."
"The coating process formed a hard nitride layer on the surface of the steel."
"Several transition-metal nitrides have been investigated for use in superconducting devices."
Used when referring to multiple nitrogen compounds or to a general class of such compounds.
"Metal nitrides can form protective layers during high-temperature processing."
The chemical ending -ide is a clue: in a nitride, nitrogen has an oxidation state of −3.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nitride come from?
The English word was formed in the 19th century from “nitrogen” plus the chemical suffix “-ide.” Its wider root is the international combining form “nitr-,” associated with compounds such as nitric acid, nitrous acid, and nitrate. This family ultimately derives from Greek nitron, meaning naturally occurring niter or natron.
Related word forms
How nitride is actually used
This is a specialized chemistry term used in formal scientific and technical writing. It should not be used for compounds containing nitrogen and oxygen, which are generally classified as oxides rather than nitrides.
Easily confused with nitride
A nitrite is an oxygen-containing salt or ion associated with nitrous acid, whereas a nitride is a nitrogen-containing binary compound, generally with a metal.