Nitrite \Ni"trite\, n. [Cf. F. nitrite. See {Niter}.] (Chem.) A salt or ester of nitrous acid; a compound bearing the {-NO2} radical. [1913 Webster +PJC] {Amyl nitrite}, a yellow oily volatile liquid, used in medicine as a depressant and a vaso-dilator. Its inhalation produces an instantaneous flushing of the face. [1913 Webster]
Amyl nitrite \Amyl nitrite\ A yellowish oily volatile liquid, {C5H11NO2}, used in medicine as a heart stimulant and a vasodilator. The inhalation of its vapor instantly produces flushing of the face. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]