oxidize

[ˈɒksɪdaɪz]

oxidize Definition

• 1. combine or become combined chemically with oxygen
• 2. lose electrons
• 3. undergo oxidation

Using oxidize: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "oxidize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Iron oxidizes when exposed to air and moisture.

• Example

  The metal will not oxidize if it is coated with paint.

• Example

  Copper oxidizes to form a green patina over time.

• Example

  The apple slice turned brown as it oxidized.

oxidize Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for oxidize

• rust
• corrode
• tarnish
• erode
• burn

Antonyms for oxidize

• reduce
• deoxidize

Phrases with oxidize

• oxidize carbon

  to convert carbon into carbon dioxide by combining it with oxygen

  Example

  During respiration, the body oxidizes carbon to produce energy.

• oxidize metal

  to corrode or tarnish metal by reacting with oxygen in the air

  Example

  The silver jewelry oxidized and turned black after being exposed to air for too long.

• oxidize wine

  to expose wine to air, causing it to react with oxygen and change flavor

  Example

  After opening the bottle, the wine should be consumed quickly before it oxidizes.

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Summary: oxidize in Brief

To 'oxidize' [ˈɒksɪdaɪz] means to chemically combine with oxygen, lose electrons, or undergo oxidation. It can refer to metals corroding or tarnishing, such as 'The silver jewelry oxidized and turned black,' or to organic matter turning brown, like 'The apple slice turned brown as it oxidized.' 'Oxidize' can also refer to converting carbon into carbon dioxide, as in 'During respiration, the body oxidizes carbon to produce energy.'