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Diluting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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diluting

[dษชหˆluหtษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

solution process

Diluting refers to the process of reducing the concentration of a substance in a solution. This is typically achieved by adding more solvent, such as water or another liquid, to the solution, which lowers the overall concentration of the solute. It is commonly used in chemistry, cooking, and various industries to achieve the desired potency or strength of a solution. The method can also be applied in contexts such as medicine, where a drug might be diluted to ensure safe administration.

Synonyms

attenuate, reduce, thin, weaken.

Examples of usage

  • The scientist is diluting the acid with water.
  • Before using the paint, make sure to dilute it to the recommended consistency.
  • Diluting the juice with water made it less sweet.
  • The pharmacist advised diluting the medication before taking it.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • When you mix a strong acid with water, itโ€™s a way of diluting to make it safer to handle.
  • In chemistry, dilution can help in preparing solutions to the right strength for experiments.
  • Dilution is important in the pharmaceutical industry; it ensures the right dosage of medication is given.

Culinary Uses

  • Cooking often requires diluting sauces or stocks to create the desired flavors without overwhelming the dish.
  • Beverages like lemonade are diluted with water to balance the sweetness of the sugar.
  • Mixing alcohol with mixers like soda or juice is a common way to dilute drinks for a lighter flavor.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, diluting beverages is a common practice to make them more refreshing, like adding water to tea.
  • Dilution can symbolize a change in community or culture, making something more accessible or palatable to a wider audience.
  • There are debates around dilution in art; sometimes, the essence of a piece is considered weakened when too many changes are made.

Environmental Impact

  • Polluted water bodies often experience dilution when rainwater washes down contaminants, spreading pollutants in a larger volume.
  • Dilution is a method used in environmental science to measure how pollutants interact in different water bodies.
  • Waste management practices sometimes use dilution techniques to lessen the impact of contaminants before disposal.

Health and Wellness

  • Diluting beverages can make them less harmful; for example, diluting sugary drinks can reduce calorie intake.
  • In hydration practices, athletes often dilate electrolyte solutions to balance their body fluids and avoid dehydration.
  • In dietary terms, diluting certain foods can help manage calorie intake while still enjoying favorite flavors.

Origin of 'diluting'

The word 'dilute' originates from the Latin word 'dilutus,' which is the past participle of 'diluere,' meaning 'to dissolve.' The prefix 'di-' means 'apart' or 'asunder,' and 'luere' means 'to wash' or 'to dissolve.' This evolution highlights the concept of dispersing a solute in a solvent. First recorded in the late 14th century, the term has been utilized across various fields, including science, medicine, and food preparation. Over time, 'diluting' came to specifically refer to the act of making a solution less concentrated by adding more liquid. As such, its application has widened, impacting how we understand mixture ratios and solutions in practical settings.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,561, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.