Neutralized: meaning, definitions and examples

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neutralized

 

[ ˈnjuːtrəlaɪzd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

chemical reaction

To neutralize something means to counteract its effects, often by combining it with an opposing agent. In chemistry, this typically refers to the reaction between an acid and a base, resulting in the formation of salt and water. Neutralization can also apply to making a situation less extreme or balanced, reducing its harmful effects. For instance, neutralizing a threat means rendering it harmless or ineffective.

Synonyms

balance, counteract, mitigate, stabilize.

Examples of usage

  • The scientist neutralized the acid with a base.
  • Efforts were made to neutralize the terrorist threat.
  • The medication helped neutralize the side effects of the treatment.

Translations

Translations of the word "neutralized" in other languages:

🇵🇹 neutralizado

🇮🇳 न्यूट्रलाइज्ड

🇩🇪 neutralisiert

🇮🇩 dinetralkan

🇺🇦 нейтралізований

🇵🇱 zneutralizowany

🇯🇵 中和された

🇫🇷 neutralisé

🇪🇸 neutralizado

🇹🇷 nötralize edilmiş

🇰🇷 중화된

🇸🇦 محايد

🇨🇿 neutralizovaný

🇸🇰 neutralizovaný

🇨🇳 中和的

🇸🇮 neutraliziran

🇮🇸 fíknu

🇰🇿 нейтрализованный

🇬🇪 ნეიტრალიზებული

🇦🇿 neytrallaşdırılmış

🇲🇽 neutralizado

Etymology

The term 'neutralize' derives from the Latin word 'neutralis', meaning 'of neither kind, not taking sides', which in turn comes from 'neuter', meaning 'neither'. The concept of neutralization has been present in various scientific disciplines, especially chemistry, where it specifically refers to acid-base reactions. The word 'neutralize' began to appear in English texts around the late 17th century, relating to both chemical processes and broader applications of making something neutral or balanced. Over time, it has evolved to encompass various contexts, including military, emotional, and environmental strategies. The transformation of the concept from purely scientific to more metaphorical uses reflects the growing complexity of language and the ways in which ideas are interconnected.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,041, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.