phosphate
//ˈfɒs.feɪt//
Noun
phosphateSingular
phosphatesPlural
1
A salt or ester of phosphoric acid, containing the anion PO₄³⁻ or a related organic group.
Phosphates are commonly used in fertilizers to promote plant growth.
2
A fertilizer containing phosphorus compounds, used to promote plant growth.
Farmers apply phosphate to the soil to help crops grow stronger.