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 replacement didn't hold up, leaving copper-rich bronze particularly vulnerable to oxidation and turning some medals blotchy and uneven. —Eric Sullivan, Scientific American, 21 Feb. 2026

Gray also said that marinating or canning salmon in antioxidant-rich sauces can further help reduce oxidation and preserve omega-3 fatty acids. —Eleesha Lockett, Verywell Health, 20 Feb. 2026

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

On one side of the fiber, oxidation occurred; on the other, reduction. —Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 14 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