oxidize
|ox/i/dize|
🇺🇸
/ˈɑːk.sɪˌdaɪz/
🇬🇧
/ˈɒk.sɪ.daɪz/
combine with oxygen
Etymology
'oxidize' originates from French, specifically the word 'oxider,' where 'oxide' meant 'a compound of oxygen.'
'oxider' transformed into the English word 'oxidize' in the late 18th century.
Initially, it meant 'to form an oxide,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to combine with oxygen or increase valence by removing electrons.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to combine or become combined chemically with oxygen.
Iron tends to oxidize when exposed to moisture.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to increase the positive charge or valence of an element by removing electrons.
The reaction will oxidize the metal, increasing its valence.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/02/07 22:31