Natron
/ˈneɪ.trɒn/noun
A naturally occurring sodium carbonate used historically in cleaning, glassmaking, and mummification.
Did you know?Natron was a key ingredient in Egyptian mummification, where its drying and cleansing powers made it both a practical chemical and a sacred substance.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Egypt
Egyptian
nṯrj
“A word associated with natron and divine purification substances”
Ancient Greek
Greek
nítron
“Natural soda or mineral alkali used for washing and cleansing”
Latin
Latin
nitrum
“Native soda, mineral alkali”
14th Century
Middle English
natroun
“A mineral salt or soda used in cleansing and other practical applications”
Modern English
English
natron
“A naturally occurring sodium carbonate used in cleaning, glassmaking, and mummification”