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

Through the oxidation of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBN, the primary intoxicating compound in cannabis, can form. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 8 Nov. 2026

Additionally, pecans contain bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, which support antioxidant activity and help reduce oxidation, a process linked to inflammation and chronic disease. — Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 8 Nov. 2026

Applying a quality wax or a dedicated UV-protectant coating can help protect the plastic and slow the oxidation process. — John Paul, The Providence Journal, 4 Sep. 2026

It is created by the incomplete oxidation of carbon in combustion, according to the EPA. — Jalen Williams, Freep.com, 4 Sep. 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