neutralize
NYOOT-ruh-lyz
Neutralize (verb) means to cancel out or remove the effect of something. Example: “Baking soda can neutralize strong odors in the fridge.”
verb
1
To cancel out or remove the effect of something.
"Baking soda can neutralize strong odors in the fridge."
"The vaccine helps the body neutralize the virus."
2
To make an acidic or alkaline substance chemically neutral.
"Adding lime to the soil neutralizes its acidity."
How to use neutralize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo cancel out an effect, or to make a substance chemically neutral.
UK vs US
British English also spells it "neutralise."
Common pairings
neutralize a threat
neutralize acid
neutralize an odor
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- neutralizes
- Past tense
- neutralized
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Baking soda can _____ strong odors in the fridge.
Etymology
From French neutraliser, first recorded in 1642, built from neutral plus -ize.
Class of 1642
neutralize joined the language around 1642.
See the full Class of 1642 →
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for neutralize
See all rhymes for neutralize →Frequently asked questions
What does “neutralize” mean?
The word “neutralize” means to cancel out or remove the effect of something. In plain terms, to cancel out an effect, or to make a substance chemically neutral.
How do you pronounce “neutralize”?
“Neutralize” is pronounced NYOOT-ruh-lyz (/ˈnutɹəˌlaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “neutralize” in a sentence?
Here is “neutralize” used in a sentence: “Baking soda can neutralize strong odors in the fridge.”
What part of speech is “neutralize”?
“Neutralize” is a verb.
Where does the word “neutralize” come from?
The word “neutralize” dates back to around 1642 and comes from French. From French neutraliser, first recorded in 1642, built from neutral plus -ize.
Is “neutralize” a common word?
“Neutralize” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “neutralize” have?
“Neutralize” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to cancel out or remove the effect of something.
