Definition

To treat something with chlorine or a chlorine compound to disinfect or purify it.

Example

The water supply was chlorinated to ensure it was safe for drinking.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know they chlorinate the water in the pool to keep it clean?

Yeah, I've heard that helps kill germs and bacteria.

I always feel safer swimming knowing they chlorinate it regularly.

Definitely! It's important for everyone's health.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Chlorinate → It is formed from "chlorine" (from Greek "chloros", meaning green) and "-ate" (a suffix used in chemistry to indicate a compound containing a specified element). The word "chlorinate" means to treat or combine with chlorine, often to disinfect or purify.

Memory Tip

Think of 'chlorine' as the green element used in cleaning, and '-ate' indicates a process. So, chlorinate means to use chlorine in a process, like cleaning or purifying.

Visually Confused Words