passivate Definition
- 1to treat a metal surface to reduce its chemical reactivity
- 2to make something less reactive or responsive
Using passivate: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "passivate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The metal parts were passivated to prevent corrosion.
Example
The medication is designed to passivate the immune system.
Example
The company's strategy was to passivate the competition by offering lower prices.
passivate Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for passivate
- neutralize
- inactivate
- deactivate
Antonyms for passivate
- activate
- energize
- stimulate
Phrases with passivate
a thin layer of material applied to a metal surface to protect it from corrosion
Example
The passivation layer on the steel surface prevented rusting.
passive-aggressive
a behavior or personality characterized by indirect resistance to the demands of others and an avoidance of direct confrontation
Example
Her passive-aggressive behavior made it difficult for her to maintain healthy relationships.
income that is earned without active involvement in generating it, such as from investments or rental properties
Example
He earns a significant amount of passive income from his real estate investments.
Origins of passivate
from Latin 'passivus', meaning 'passive'
Summary: passivate in Brief
'Passivate' [ˈpæsɪveɪt] means to reduce the reactivity of a metal surface or to make something less responsive. It can refer to treating metal surfaces to prevent corrosion, or to medications that suppress the immune system. The term also extends to business strategies, such as 'passivating' the competition by offering lower prices. 'Passivate' has synonyms like 'deactivate' and 'neutralize,' and informal equivalents like 'tone down' and 'cool off.'