neutralize

verb

Save Word

neu·tral·ize | \ ˈnü-trə-ˌlīz

, ˈnyü- \

neutralized; neutralizing

Definition of neutralize

transitive verb

1 : to make chemically neutral

2a : to counteract the activity or effect of : make ineffective propaganda that is difficult to neutralize

b : kill, destroy

3 : to make electrically inert by combining equal positive and negative quantities

4 : to invest (a territory, a nation, etc.) with conventional or obligatory neutrality conferring inviolability during a war

5 : to make neutral by blending with the complementary color

6 : to give (a pair of phonemes) a nondistinctive form or pronunciation \t\ and \d\ are neutralized when pronounced as flaps

intransitive verb

: to undergo neutralization

Other Words from neutralize Synonyms More Example Sentences Learn More About neutralize

Examples of neutralize in a Sentence

The soldiers tried to neutralize the attack by dividing the invading army. This medicine neutralizes stomach acids. The lands between the warring countries were neutralized.

Recent Examples on the Web Defenders going under on screens could neutralize his scoring effectiveness. — Khobi Price, Orlando Sentinel, 1 June 2022 For Bran, these qualities neutralize the place into a purgatorial zone. — New York Times, 17 May 2022 Katherine Schweit, a former FBI special agent who launched the bureau’s active shooter program after the Sandy Hook massacre in Connecticut, said law enforcement officers are trained to pursue and neutralize active shooters immediately. — Michael Ruiz, Fox News, 18 July 2022 In May, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, also the country’s energy chief, said the two countries would neutralize Western sanctions by working together. — Benoit Faucon, WSJ, 16 July 2022 Three minutes after the subject entered the west building, there was sufficient number of armed officers wearing body armor to isolate, distract, and neutralize the subject. — Taylor Wilson, USA TODAY, 22 June 2022 Antimicrobial olive leaf extract, and natural coconut and lavender extracts soothe the skin under your arm, neutralize nasty odors and prevent bacteria from forming. — Grooming Playbook, The Salt Lake Tribune, 10 June 2022 In the training's basic level course for law enforcement, first responders are taught to isolate, distract and neutralize an active shooter. — Jessie Dimartino, ABC News, 3 June 2022 Officers are taught to enter quickly in small formations -- or even with one or two officers -- and act to contain and neutralize any gunman. — Arkansas Online, 28 May 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'neutralize.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.