lyophilized
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /laɪˈɒfɪlaɪzd/
KK: /lɪˈɒfɪlaɪzd/
adjective
Definition
Describing a substance that has been dried by freezing, often to preserve it for storage or transport.
Example
The lyophilized fruit retains most of its nutrients and flavor.
Conversation
Have you ever tried that lyophilized fruit in smoothies?
No, I haven't! What’s special about it?
It's really convenient because it doesn't take up much space and tastes great.
That sounds awesome! I should definitely give it a try.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dehydrated
dried
preserved
Antonyms
moist
wet
fresh
verb
Definition
To freeze a substance and then remove the water from it, usually to preserve it for later use.
Example
The scientist lyophilized the samples to ensure they remained stable during storage.
Tense Forms
Past: lyophilized
Past Participle: lyophilized
Conversation
Did you know they lyophilized the strawberries for that dessert?
Really? I love when they do that; it keeps the flavor so intense.
Yeah, and it makes the texture really interesting too.
Root Explanation
Lyophilized → It is formed from 'lyo-' (from Greek 'lyo', meaning to dissolve) and 'philos' (from Greek 'philos', meaning loving) combined with '-ized' (a suffix indicating a process). The term 'lyophilized' refers to a process that involves dissolving and then preserving a substance by removing water, thus 'loving to dissolve' in a way that maintains its structure.
Memory Tip
Think of the Greek root 'lyo' meaning to dissolve, and 'philos' meaning loving, to remember that 'lyophilized' refers to a process that preserves a substance by removing water while maintaining its structure.
Visually Confused Words
syphilize