hydrocracked
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /haɪˈdrɒkræktɪd/
KK: /haɪˈdrɒkræktɪd/
adjective
Definition
Describing a substance that has undergone a chemical process called hydrocracking, which breaks down large molecules into smaller ones using hydrogen and heat.
Example
The hydrocracked oil is more efficient for fuel production.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new fuel they developed?
No, what's special about it?
It's made from hydrocracked materials, which improves efficiency.
That sounds interesting! I hope it helps reduce emissions.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
refined
processed
upgraded
Antonyms
unrefined
raw
crude
verb
Definition
To break down heavy hydrocarbons into lighter products using hydrogen and heat, typically in the context of refining petroleum.
Example
The oil refinery hydrocracked the heavy crude oil to produce gasoline.
Tense Forms
Past: hydrocracked
Past Participle: hydrocracked
Conversation
Did you hear about the new process they hydrocracked at the refinery?
Yeah, I read about it! It's supposed to improve efficiency a lot.
I wonder how much they hydrocracked the oil before using it.
Root Explanation
Hydrocracked → It is formed from "hydro-" (from Greek "hydor", meaning water) and "cracked" (from Old English "cracian", meaning to break). The term refers to a process involving the breaking down of hydrocarbons in the presence of water or hydrogen.
Memory Tip
Think of 'water' ('hydro-') being involved in a process that 'breaks' ('cracian') down substances — that's what hydrocracked means.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.