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

The linear generator turns heat into electricity using a flameless, low-temperature oxidation process. — Abhishek Bhardwaj, Interesting Engineering, 7 Aug. 2026

Research on animal foods has shown that boiling produces fewer cholesterol oxidation products than high-temperature dry-heat methods such as frying, where surface temperatures commonly range from 160 to 200 degrees C (320 to 392 degrees F). — Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 5 Aug. 2026

Sun exposure causes oxidation that leaves a chalky residue, high humidity can lead to mildew and mold, and shrubs and trees that brush against the house can deposit sap and moisture on the shutters. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 4 Aug. 2026

Photons of sunlight can break up the chemical bonds in the particles and transform its chemical identity, a process known as oxidation, Westervelt said. — Kasha Patel, CNN Money, 17 July 2026

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