\Ni"tric\, a. [Cf. F. nitrique. See {Niter}.] (Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, or containing, nitrogen; specifically,
designating any one of those compounds in which, as
contrasted with nitrous compounds, the element has a higher
valence; as, nitric oxide; nitric acid.
{Nitric acid}, a colorless or yellowish liquid obtained by
   distilling a nitrate with sulphuric acid. It is powerfully
   corrosive, being a strong acid, and in decomposition a
   strong oxidizer.
{Nitric anhydride}, a white crystalline oxide of nitrogen
   ({N2O5}), called {nitric pentoxide}, and regarded as the
   anhydride of nitric acid.
{Nitric oxide}, a colorless poisous gas ({NO}) obtained by
   treating nitric acid with copper. On contact with the air
   or with oxygen, it becomes reddish brown from the
   formation of nitric dioxide or peroxide.