homogenization

American  

[huh-moj-uh-nahy-zey-shuhn, hoh-] / həˌmɒdʒ ə naɪˈzeɪ ʃən, hoʊ- /

especially British, homogenisation

noun

1. the act or process of blending unlike elements.

   Industrial composting is a complex process, requiring sieves, shredders, equipment for mixing and homogenization, aeration systems, filters, scrubbers, and control systems.

2. the act or process of emulsifying, especially milk or cream.

   Whole milk is pumped into storage silos where it undergoes pasteurization, homogenization, separation, butterfat adjustment, and vitamin fortification.

3. the act or process of making something more uniform or similar.

   A major ecological dilemma stems from the homogenization of agricultural systems, namely the increased vulnerability of crops to pests, diseases, and climatic variability.

   As trends of gentrification and homogenization continue in New York, a solution is needed to preserve the individuality of the city's neighborhoods.

4. Metallurgy. the act or process of subjecting metal to high temperatures to ensure uniform diffusion of components.

   The lab is developing a computational approach to improve the homogenization and heat treatment of solid substitutional alloys.

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Etymology

Origin of homogenization

homogeniz(e) ( def. ) + -ation ( def. )

Example Sentences

Conservationists and architects are also leading a push to preserve the character of the Cyclades, which they say is at risk of being obliterated amid a real estate-driven homogenization of vacation destinations.

From New York Times • Jan. 15, 2024

It allows the commodification of living creatures such as whales and trees, which, in turn, enables their homogenization, and therefore mindless substitution of one “service” for another.

From Scientific American • Nov. 8, 2023

"The current trend of carbon-focused tree planting is taking us along the path of large-scale biotic and functional homogenization for little carbon gain," the authors write.

From Science Daily • Oct. 3, 2023

They may cause some homogenization in corporate blog posts and design—something a little human touch can help alleviate—but that won’t put people out to pasture.

From Slate • Sep. 23, 2023

Its “Sinification” involved the drastic homogenization of a huge region in an ancient melting pot, the repopulation of tropical Southeast Asia, and the exertion of a massive influence on Japan, Korea, and possibly even India.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond