Definition

To divide something into smaller parts or components, often used in a scientific context to describe the separation of substances.

Example

The chemist will fractionate the mixture to isolate the different compounds.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard they can fractionate oil into different components at the refinery now.

Really? That sounds interesting! How does that process work?

They use heat and pressure to separate the different parts, it's quite complex.

Wow, science is amazing! I need to learn more about how they do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fractionate → It is formed from "fraction" (from Latin "fractio", meaning a breaking) and the suffix "-ate" (meaning to make or to cause to be). The word "fractionate" means to cause something to be broken into fractions or parts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'breaking' ('fractio') something into smaller 'parts' — that's what fractionate means.

Visually Confused Words