fluorinated
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈflʊə.rɪ.neɪ.tɪd/
KK: /ˈflʊərəˌneɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Describing a compound that has had one or more hydrogen atoms replaced by fluorine atoms, or that has been treated with fluorine or hydrofluoric acid.
Example
The chemist worked with fluorinated compounds to improve their stability.
Conversation
I just learned that some materials are fluorinated to improve their properties.
Really? What does that even mean?
It means they have had some hydrogen replaced with fluorine atoms, making them more durable.
That sounds interesting! I didn’t know chemistry could be so useful.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fluorine
halogenated
treated
Antonyms
untreated
natural
pure
verb
Definition
To treat or combine a substance with fluorine or fluorine compounds.
Example
The chemical was fluorinated to enhance its properties.
Tense Forms
Past: fluorinated
Past Participle: fluorinated
Conversation
Did you know they fluorinated the water supply recently?
Really? What does that even mean for us?
It’s supposed to help with dental health, but I’m not sure about the details.
Root Explanation
Fluorinated → It is formed from "fluor" (from Latin "fluorem", meaning to flow) and the suffix "-ated" (indicating a chemical process). The word "fluorinated" refers to a chemical process where fluorine is added to a substance, implying that the substance has been made to contain fluorine.
Memory Tip
Think of 'fluor' meaning to 'flow' and remember that 'fluorinated' means a substance that has had fluorine added to it, as if it flows with this new element.
Visually Confused Words
floriated
floriate
foraminated
forminate