oxidation

noun

ox·​i·​da·​tion ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-shən 

1

: the act or process of oxidizing

2

: the state or result of being oxidized

oxidative

ˈäk-sə-ˌdā-tiv 

adjective

oxidatively adverb

Examples of oxidation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Cooking oils at extremely high temperatures can create oxidation, a driver of inflammation that may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes. —Sarah Garone, Health, 8 Dec. 2025

In their various states of oxidation, the shiny, metallic REEs can form a range of colorful compounds. —New Atlas, 1 Dec. 2025

Gray, green, or brown patches on the flesh are a sign of spoilage or oxidation. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 24 Nov. 2025

The star ingredients here are oil-absorbing clays (including kaolin and bentonite) and the brand’s signature grapeseed polyphenols, which provide free radical protection as well as combat sebum oxidation—the reason blackheads appear dark. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, from oxider, oxyder to oxidize, from oxide

First Known Use

1745, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing oxidation

• beta-oxidation
• oxidation-reduction
• oxidation state
• re-oxidation

Rhymes for oxidation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

oxidation

noun

ox·​i·​da·​tion ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-shən 

1

: the process of oxidizing

2

: the state or result of being oxidized

oxidative

ˈäk-sə-ˌdāt-iv 

adjective

Medical Definition

oxidation

noun

ox·​i·​da·​tion ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-shən 

1

: the act or process of oxidizing

2

: the state or result of being oxidized