sodium
SOH-dee-um
/ˈsəʊdiəm/
A chemical element that is a major component of salt; used in food for flavor and preservation.
While often used interchangeably with 'salt,' sodium is actually only 40% of table salt (sodium chloride).
The story behind the word. The name comes from 'soda,' which was used in the medieval period to refer to various alkaline substances. The element was first isolated in 1807 by Humphry Davy, who named it after the soda from which he extracted it.
Word relationships
- salt: Salt is the compound (sodium chloride); sodium is the specific element that affects blood pressure.
Collocations
- high sodium
- low sodium
- sodium content
- sodium intake
Example sentences
- "The reduction of sodium in the diet is a major public health challenge." Public health guidelines. (World Health Organization Report)
- "One serving of this canned soup contains over 50% of the recommended daily intake of sodium." Reading a nutrition label.
Memory hook
So-dium. 'So' much salt is bad for you. The 'salt' element.
When not to use
In a kitchen, people usually say 'salt.' Use 'sodium' when discussing nutrition labels or health science.
Fun facts
- Pure sodium is a soft metal that is so reactive it will explode if it touches water.
Related words
Explore more words
salinity, brine, preservative, stabilizer, cure, sequestrant
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