Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

spirits-of-salt

Noun

/ˈspɪrɪts əv sɔlt/

Definition

A historical term for hydrochloric acid, often used in alchemy and early chemistry.

Examples

In the laboratory, the chemist carefully measured out the spirits of salt for the reaction.
Historically, spirits of salt were prized for their ability to dissolve metals.
In alchemical texts, spirits of salt were often referenced in conjunction with other substances.

Meaning

The term ‘spirits of salt’ refers to a colorless, pungent solution of hydrochloric acid, which was historically significant in various scientific processes.