Inactivation: meaning, definitions and examples

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inactivation

 

[ˌɪnˈæktɪˌveɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

biological process

Inactivation refers to the process by which an active substance, such as an enzyme or a virus, loses its activity. This can occur due to various factors like changes in environmental conditions or interaction with other substances. Inactivation is crucial in various fields, including biochemistry and pharmacology.

Synonyms

deactivation, neutralization, suppression.

Examples of usage

  • The inactivation of the virus was confirmed in the lab.
  • Certain temperatures can lead to the inactivation of enzymes.
  • The drug's effectiveness depends on the inactivation rate of the pathogen.
Context #2 | Noun

physics

Inactivation can also refer to the process of making something inactive or non-functional, particularly in the context of physical systems. This use is often seen in engineering or electronics where components may be deliberately inactivated to prevent operation.

Synonyms

decommissioning, disabling, shutdown.

Examples of usage

  • The inactivation of the circuit was necessary for safe maintenance.
  • Inactivation of the safety mechanism led to a temporary shutdown.
  • The system underwent inactivation before the procedure began.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term combines 'inactive' with the suffix '-ation,' which implies a process, forming a word that suggests a change of state.
  • Originated in the 19th century, it reflects the scientific movement toward understanding biological processes.
  • In other languages, similar terms exist, indicating the concept is universal in scientific terminology.

Science

  • In biology, inactivation can refer to making enzymes or genes nonfunctional, crucial for regulating biological activities.
  • Vaccine development often hinges on the inactivation of harmful viruses, making them safe for use in immunization.
  • Certain drugs work by inducing inactivation of specific receptors in the body, altering how diseases progress.

Technology

  • In computer science, inactivation can happen when software features are disabled for security or performance reasons.
  • In mobile devices, battery saver modes involve the inactivation of non-essential services to extend usage time.
  • Game developers often use inactivation techniques to manage resources, keeping only what's necessary active to reduce lag.

Psychology

  • In cognitive psychology, inactivation of certain brain pathways suggests methods to alter unwanted behaviors or memories.
  • Therapeutic processes may involve inactivation of negative thought patterns to facilitate positive mental health changes.
  • Stress management techniques can focus on promoting the inactivation of stress responses to maintain emotional balance.

Literature

  • Metaphorically, inactivation could symbolize the pauses in a story, when characters undergo change or reflection.
  • Inactivated plot devices, such as hidden motives, can create intrigue and tension, leading to significant narrative developments.
  • Poets sometimes describe emotional inactivation to convey feelings of numbness or disillusionment, offering deep introspection.

Translations

Translations of the word "inactivation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inativação

🇮🇳 निष्क्रियता

🇩🇪 Inaktivierung

🇮🇩 inaktivasi

🇺🇦 інактивація

🇵🇱 inaktywacja

🇯🇵 不活性化

🇫🇷 inactivation

🇪🇸 inactivación

🇹🇷 inaktivasyon

🇰🇷 비활성화

🇸🇦 تعطيل

🇨🇿 inaktivace

🇸🇰 inakcia

🇨🇳 失活

🇸🇮 inaktivacija

🇮🇸 óvirkni

🇰🇿 инактивация

🇬🇪 ინაქტივაცია

🇦🇿 inaktivasiya

🇲🇽 inactivación

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,726, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.