oxidize Definition
- 1combine or become combined chemically with oxygen
- 2lose electrons
- 3undergo 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
Phrases with oxidize
Example
During respiration, the body oxidizes carbon to produce energy.
Example
The silver jewelry oxidized and turned black after being exposed to air for too long.
Example
After opening the bottle, the wine should be consumed quickly before it oxidizes.
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.'