ablate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /əˈbleɪt/
KK: /əˈbleɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To undergo a process where material is removed or worn away, often due to heat or other forms of energy.
Example
The material will ablate when exposed to high temperatures.
Tense Forms
Past: ablated
Past Participle: ablated
Conversation
Did you know that some materials can actually ablate when heated?
Really? I had no idea that could happen.
Yeah, it’s interesting to see how different substances ablate at various temperatures.
Science is so cool! I love learning about stuff like that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
erode
dissolve
decay
Antonyms
build
grow
increase
transitive verb
Definition
To remove or destroy a part of something, especially in a medical context, often by cutting, melting, or using heat.
Example
The surgeon decided to ablate the tumor to prevent further complications.
Tense Forms
Past: ablated
Past Participle: ablated
Conversation
Did you hear about the new treatment that can ablate tumors without surgery?
No, I haven't! That sounds really interesting.
Yeah, it uses lasers to ablate the tissue instead, which is less invasive.
Root Explanation
Ablate is formed from "ab-" (meaning away) and "later" (from Latin "latus", meaning to carry or to bear). The word describes the process of carrying away material from a surface.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'carried away' ('ab-') from a surface ('later') — that's what ablate means.
Visually Confused Words
blate
alate
abate
tabulate
ambulate
ablegate
palate
oblate