oxidize
[ ok-si-dahyz ]
/ ˈɒk sɪˌdaɪz /
verb (used with object), ox·i·dized, ox·i·diz·ing.
to convert (an element) into an oxide; combine with oxygen.
to cover with a coating of oxide or rust.
to take away hydrogen, as by the action of oxygen; add oxygen or any nonmetal.
to remove electrons from (an atom or molecule), thereby increasing the valence.Compare reduce(def 12).
verb (used without object), ox·i·dized, ox·i·diz·ing.
to become oxidized.
(especially of white wine) to lose freshness after prolonged exposure to air and often to darken in color.
Nearby words
Also especially British, ox·i·dise.
Related forms
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for oxidize
British Dictionary definitions for oxidize
oxidize
oxidise
/ (ˈɒksɪˌdaɪz) /
verb
to undergo or cause to undergo a chemical reaction with oxygen, as in formation of an oxide
to form or cause to form a layer of metal oxide, as in rusting
to lose or cause to lose hydrogen atoms
to undergo or cause to undergo a decrease in the number of electronsCompare reduce (def. 12c)
Derived Forms
oxidization or oxidisation, nounCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Medicine definitions for oxidize
oxidize
[ ŏk′sĭ-dīz′ ]
v.
To combine with oxygen; change into an oxide.
To increase the positive charge or valence of an element by removing electrons.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Science definitions for oxidize
oxidize
[ ŏk′sĭ-dīz′ ]
To undergo or cause to undergo oxidation.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.