bittern, very bitter-tasting solution that remains after evaporation and crystallization of sodium chloride (table salt) from brines and seawater. It contains in concentrated form the calcium and magnesium chlorides and sulfates, bromides, iodides, and other chemicals originally present in the brine. It is a commercial source of magnesium compounds—magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts), magnesium chloride, and magnesium bromide. The chemical term is a modification of bitter.