Definition

A white crystalline compound commonly used in baking and as an antacid, also known as sodium bicarbonate.

Example

I added bicarb to the cake mixture to help it rise.

Conversation

Have you ever used bicarb for cleaning around the house?

Yes, it works wonders on tough stains.

I heard it can also help with odors in the fridge.

Absolutely, just sprinkle some bicarb and let it sit for a while.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bicarb is a shortened form of 'bicarbonate', which is formed from 'bi-' (meaning two) and 'carbon' (from Latin 'carbo', meaning coal or carbon) and '-ate' (a suffix used in chemistry to denote a salt or ester of an acid). The term 'bicarbonate' refers to a compound containing two carbonate groups, hence the prefix 'bi-'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('bi-') carbon atoms in a compound, which helps you remember that bicarb refers to a type of carbonate.

Visually Confused Words