Mineralize: meaning, definitions and examples

Applicable when referring to the process of adding minerals to something. This term is often used in geological and biological contexts.

• The water was mineralized to enhance its health benefits.
• Scientists studied how bones mineralize over time.

Used when making something better or more valuable by adding new or additional elements. It has broad applications, including education, soil improvement, and personal growth.

• The school's curriculum was enriched with new science programs.
• Farmers use compost to enrich the soil.

Employed when strengthening something, either physically by adding defensive structures or metaphorically by adding beneficial substances, often used in the context of food and drink.

• The milk was fortified with vitamin D.
• They had to fortify the castle walls against the attackers.

Typically used in agricultural or gardening contexts when adding nutrients to the soil to promote plant growth.

• Farmers fertilize the fields before planting the crops.
• The gardener used organic compost to fertilize the flower beds.

When discussing a process where minerals are deposited in an organism or object, converting it into a mineral substance over time. Often used in scientific contexts.

• Over millions of years, bones can mineralize and preserve the original structure.
• The water in the cave helps to mineralize the stalactites.

When talking about the process through which organic material is preserved and transformed into a fossil. Commonly used in paleontology.

• The dinosaur bones began to fossilize after being buried under sediments for centuries.
• Certain plants can fossilize and give us insight into ancient ecosystems.

When referring to organic material turning into stone over a long period. The term is also used metaphorically to mean causing extreme fear or surprise. Scientific and colloquial usage.

• The wood was petrified over millions of years, turning it into stone.
• The sudden noise petrified the small child.

When discussing a process where a liquid or gas changes state to become solid. Frequently used in both scientific contexts and everyday language.

• The cooling lava began to solidify upon contact with water.
• The agreement between the two companies will solidify their partnership.