oxidize

[ ok-si-dahyz ]
/ ˈɒk sɪˌdaɪz /
Chemistry

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.
Also especially British, ox·i·dise.

Origin of oxidize

First recorded in 1795–1805; oxide + -ize

OTHER WORDS FROM oxidize

Example sentences 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 electrons Compare reduce (def. 12c)

Derived forms of oxidize

oxidization or oxidisation, noun

Medical definitions for oxidize

oxidize
[ ŏksĭ-dīz′ ]

v.

To combine with oxygen; change into an oxide.
To increase the positive charge or valence of an element by removing electrons.

Scientific definitions for oxidize

oxidize
[ ŏksĭ-dīz′ ]

To undergo or cause to undergo oxidation.