demethylate

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /dɪˈmɛθəˌleɪt/

KK: /dɛmɛθəˌleɪt/

verb

Definition

To remove one or more methyl groups from a chemical compound, particularly in biological contexts.

Example

Scientists are studying how to demethylate certain genes to understand their functions better.

Tense Forms

Past: demethylated

Past Participle: demethylated

Conversation

I was reading about how enzymes can demethylate DNA.

That's interesting! I didn't know they could do that.

Yeah, it plays a big role in regulating gene expression.

It really shows how complex biology can be!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

dealkylate

demethylation

desmethylate

Antonyms

methylate

alkylate

add

Root Explanation

Demethylate → It is formed from "de-" (meaning removal or reversal) and "methyl" (from Greek "mēthylē", meaning a chemical group derived from methane) and "-ate" (a suffix used in chemistry to indicate a process). The word "demethylate" means to remove a methyl group from a molecule.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') a 'methyl group' — that's why demethylate means to take away that specific chemical group.

Visually Confused Words