A powerful solvent; spec. nitric acid. Cf. aqua fortis, n.

Chiefly with distinguishing word: a strong mineral acid, esp. nitric acid, or a mixture of such acids. Cf. aqua fortis, n. 1. Now historical and rare.

The early scientific, and still the popular, name of the Nitric Acid of commerce (dilute HNO3), a powerful solvent and corrosive.

(also spirits of nitre) a strong acid made from nitre; nitric acid.

nitric acid as used in parting gold and silver.

oil of saltpetre: petroleum. spirits of saltpetre: nitric acid. Obsolete.

A highly corrosive and toxic acid, HNO3, with strong oxidizing properties, which is a colourless or pale yellow fuming liquid with a pungent smell…