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

To extend the lifespan of your green goodness even longer, add a thin layer of lime or lemon juice over the surface before sealing to help slow oxidation, or pour a thin layer of water over the top to block oxygen. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Feb. 2026

The closed bipolar cell allowed simultaneous oxidation at one end and reduction at the other, enabling wireless actuation. —Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 14 Feb. 2026

Approximately 20,000 bottles of the triglyceride-lowering drug icosapent ethyl were recalled because oxidation is causing the capsules to leak. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 5 Feb. 2026

Research that investigated elderberry juice's effect on the gut microbiome also looked into its effect on fat oxidation, or the body's burning of fat. —Julia Landwehr, Health, 3 Feb. 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