azotizing
|a-zo-tiz-ing|
/ˈæzəˌtaɪz/
(azotize)
to add or combine with nitrogen
Etymology
'azotize' originates from French, specifically the word 'azote', where the Greek prefix 'a-' meant 'not' and 'zōē' (life) referred to 'life' (hence 'azote' originally meant 'without life', used for nitrogen gas).
'azotize' changed from French 'azotiser' (or formed in English from French 'azote' + English verb-forming suffix '-ize') and eventually became the English verb 'azotize' and its forms such as 'azotizing'.
Initially, the root referred to 'azote' (nitrogen, thought of as 'not supporting life'); over time the verb form came to mean 'to add or introduce nitrogen' (to nitrogenate or nitridate) and is used in technical/chemical contexts.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the process of introducing nitrogen into a substance (often used for metals or chemical compounds); nitriding or nitrogenation.
The azotizing carried out in the furnace increased the surface hardness of the parts.
Synonyms
Verb 1
present participle or gerund form of 'azotize'. (To perform the action of azotize.)
Azotizing the metal surface created a thin, nitrogen-rich layer that improved wear resistance.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/08 07:02