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Synonyms

neutralization

American  
[noo-truh-luh-zey-shuhn, nyoo-] / ˌnu trə ləˈzeɪ ʃən, ˌnyu- /

noun

  1. the act, process, or an instance of neutralizing.

  2. the quality or condition of being neutralized.

  3. Linguistics. the loss of a distinctive feature of one of a pair of phonemes that are otherwise differentiated on the basis of that feature, as the loss of voice as a distinctive feature between the -t- and -d- of latter and ladder.


Other Word Forms

  • overneutralization noun

Etymology

Origin of neutralization

First recorded in 1800–10; neutralize + -ation

Explanation

To neutralize something means to make it neutral or harmless. Neutralization is the name of this process. If you help defuse a bomb, you contribute to its neutralization. If you are a criminal mastermind, and a police detective appears to be amassing the evidence needed to convict you of your crimes, you can neutralize the threat he poses by having him killed. Following his neutralization, you can continue on your evil way.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing neutralization

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Hybrid systems that combine detection, identification and neutralization into integrated platforms are where the premium contracts are being signed.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

Surprisingly, it was precisely these random modifications that were essential for the neutralization of Omicron variants.

From Science Daily • Dec. 7, 2023

Jamey Mulligan, head of carbon neutralization science and strategy at Amazon said an “all hands on deck approach” was needed to scale up the technology.

From Reuters • Sep. 12, 2023

In a statement, a spokesman said: "As of this time, it is not possible to say with certainty that the video does indeed document the neutralization of Abdul Rahman Hassan by IDF forces."

From BBC • Jul. 10, 2023

It combines learning how to handle die specific processes for the company whose calls they will be taking or making, and attending something called “accent neutralization class.”

From "The World Is Flat" by Thomas L. Friedman