Definition

To use a chemical compound to treat a surface or material, often to enhance its properties or extract valuable metals.

Example

The jeweler decided to cyanide the metal to give it a more durable finish.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know they cyanide some metals to make them more durable?

Really? I had no idea that was a thing.

Yeah, it's interesting how they cyanide the surface to improve strength.

Science is amazing! I love learning about these processes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cyanide is derived from "cyan" (from Greek "kyanos", meaning dark blue) and the suffix "-ide" (used in chemistry to denote a binary compound). The word "cyanide" refers to a compound containing the cyanide ion, which is associated with a dark blue color in its salts.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for dark blue, 'kyanos', to remember that cyanide is related to a compound that has a connection to that color.

Visually Confused Words