1. salts or esters of citric acid, commonly used as food additives, preservatives, or in medical applications
Usage: chemistry; plural form

Examples

• Sodium citrates are often added to processed foods as preservatives.
• The laboratory tested various citrates for their buffering properties.
• Citrates help prevent kidney stones by binding to calcium.
• Many soft drinks contain citrates to enhance flavor and shelf life.
• The medication included potassium citrates to reduce acidity.
• Food manufacturers use citrates to maintain product freshness.