as in to decompose
to combine chemically with oxygen
Iron will oxidize if it is exposed to air and moisture.
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Recent Examples of oxidize
Stains left untreated can oxidize and set, causing permanent discoloration.
—
Shelby Wax, Vogue, 22 May 2025
The flor also helps the alcohol in the wine to oxidize.
—Per and Britt Karlsson, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
This is due to their special metabolism, in which electrons generated by oxidizing sulfides in their deeper layers are sent to their surface layer, where they are received by oxygen and nitric acid.
—Ritsuko Kawai, Wired News, 5 May 2025
Some proteobacteria live in deep ocean trenches, and oxidize carbon monoxide (which contributes to global warming and depletes ozone).
—Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 20 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for oxidize
Shelby Wax, Vogue, 22 May 2025
The flor also helps the alcohol in the wine to oxidize.
—Per and Britt Karlsson, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
This is due to their special metabolism, in which electrons generated by oxidizing sulfides in their deeper layers are sent to their surface layer, where they are received by oxygen and nitric acid.
—Ritsuko Kawai, Wired News, 5 May 2025
Some proteobacteria live in deep ocean trenches, and oxidize carbon monoxide (which contributes to global warming and depletes ozone).
—Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 20 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for oxidize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for oxidize
Verb
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The decomposing roots serve as the host for the mushrooms to grow.—
Chris McKeown,
The Enquirer,
2 July 2025
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The metamorphic rock from which Atlanta’s soil is derived also contributes to its alkalinity as does the constantly decomposing organic matter, consisting mostly of leaves, on the soil surface.—
Joshua Siskin,
Oc Register,
28 June 2025
Verb
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Stainless steel is a cheaper alternative, still easy to clean, and shouldn’t rust.—
BestReviews,
Chicago Tribune,
23 May 2025
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It’s built to last, thanks to a thick resin material that won’t rust, peel, or dent, and boasts a contemporary style with clean lines and smooth edges that’s easy to match other outdoor furniture and decor.—
Clint Davis,
People.com,
27 June 2025
Verb
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Instead of reacting out of habit, curious individuals ask questions like What is the most important task right now?—
Dr. Diane Hamilton,
Forbes.com,
1 July 2025
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In a statement to Variety, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) reacted to the Supreme Court news, first reported by Reuters.—
Andrew Flanagan,
Variety,
30 June 2025
Verb
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Organic materials like wood, leather, and fabric — which often remain remarkably preserved in the cold, low-oxygen depths — can begin to warp, crumble or disintegrate as dormant bacteria and fungi reactivate.—
Jordan Runtagh,
People.com,
6 July 2025
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Researchers think the deceased was buried in a wooden coffin that has long since disintegrated.—
Sonja Anderson,
Smithsonian Magazine,
3 July 2025
Verb
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Unfortunately, countless family businesses crumble—not for financial reasons, but because of missteps in preparation.—
Anatoly Iofe,
Forbes.com,
11 July 2025
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But Paxton's sizeable lead could crumble in light of his divorce proceedings.—
Martha McHardy,
MSNBC Newsweek,
11 July 2025
Verb
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Heavy metal pots are corroded almost to the point of disintegration, while nearby playing cards — the four of hearts, ace of spades and nine of diamonds — appear untouched.—
Jordan Runtagh,
People.com,
6 July 2025
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According to Honda, the driveshaft may corrode and break due to damage from road salt or other contaminants.—
Saleen Martin,
USA Today,
2 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Oxidize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/oxidize. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.
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