deodorize

verb

de·​odor·​ize dē-ˈō-də-ˌrīz How to pronounce deodorize (audio)
deodorized; deodorizing; deodorizes

transitive verb

1
: to eliminate or prevent the offensive odor of
2
: to make (something unpleasant or reprehensible) more acceptable
the movie deodorizes his scandalous career
deodorization noun
deodorizer noun

Example Sentences

We had the carpet cleaned and deodorized. the propaganda film attempts to deodorize the dictator's history of human rights abuses
Recent Examples on the Web Made with natural ingredients and without any harsh additives, this laundry detergent effectively cleans and deodorizes pet items without compromising their quality. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 22 Apr. 2023 Steam cleaners can also work for cleaning and deodorizing carpets. Theresa Holland, Peoplemag, 27 Mar. 2023 Naturally London’s spray includes some powerhouse ingredients like organic cane alcohol, willow bark extract and aloe that can be used in a multitude of way like soothe bug bites, sanitize surfaces for yourself or your children or even deodorize smelly shoes, yoga mats, etc. Joseph Deacetis, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2021 The DoDo points out, there is a difference between perfumes or colognes and deodorizing sprays. Olivia Muenter, Woman's Day Magazine, 13 May 2023 Features Quality air purifiers clean and deodorize the air in your living and work spaces to help keep you healthy. Lacey Muinos, Verywell Health, 14 Apr. 2023 These 3-in-1 detergent pods come in travel-friendly dissolvable pouches that clean, deodorize, and soften your delicates without causing any damage or fading. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 12 Apr. 2023 This formula, which is made in the United States, includes deodorizing agents and has a lemon scent. Talon Homer, Popular Mechanics, 11 Apr. 2023 The ingredient list boasts components like aloe vera and eucalyptus to soothe skin, as well as hops extract to naturally deodorize. Nikolas Greenwald, Good Housekeeping, 24 Mar. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'deodorize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deodorize was in 1856

Dictionary Entries Near deodorize

Cite this Entry

“Deodorize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deodorize. Accessed 8 Jun. 2023.

Kids Definition

deodorize

verb
de·​odor·​ize dē-ˈōd-ə-ˌrīz How to pronounce deodorize (audio)
deodorized; deodorizing
: to eliminate or prevent the unpleasant odor of
deodorizer noun

Medical Definition

deodorize

transitive verb
de·​odor·​ize
variants or British deodorise
deodorized or British deodorised; deodorizing or British deodorising
: to eliminate or prevent the offensive odor of
deodorization noun
or British deodorisation
deodorizer noun
or British deodoriser

More from Merriam-Webster on deodorize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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