acidify

[uh-sid-uh-fahy]

verb (used with or without object)

acidified, acidifying 

1. to make or become acid; convert into an acid.

2. to make or become sour.

acidify

/ əˈsɪdɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to convert into or become acid

Other Word Forms

• acidifiable adjective
• acidification noun
• acidifier noun
• reacidification noun
• reacidify verb
• semiacidified adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of acidify¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; acid + -ify

Example Sentences

Unfortunately, as CO2 emissions increase, it acidifies the ocean, which can make it less hospitable for life.

From Salon

Projections of our future under climate change paint a picture of extreme weather and acidified oceans, a world many of today’s animals — including humans — may struggle, or fail, to survive.

From Salon

The sea also absorbs carbon dioxide, acidifying the water, which breaks down essential minerals that organisms need to grow their shells and skeletons.

From Los Angeles Times

Sulfides also acidify the water, which can accelerate weathering.

From Science Daily

In the face of warming, acidifying oceans, coral skeletons are at risk of dissolving.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• fester 
• ripen 
• simmer