Definition

To make something ineffective or harmless by counteracting it or removing its power.

Example

The scientist worked to neutralise the harmful effects of the chemical spill.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard there are ways to neutralise the acidity in the soil.

Really? That sounds interesting! How can you do that?

You can add lime or organic matter to help neutralise it.

I might try that in my garden this spring!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Neutralise → It is formed from "neutral" (from Latin *neutralis*, meaning neither one nor the other) and "-ise" (a suffix used to form verbs meaning to make or to become). The word "neutralise" means to make something neutral or to counteract its effects.

Memory Tip

Think of making something 'neither one nor the other' ('neutral') — and the '-ise' means to make it so. This helps you remember that to neutralise means to make something neutral.

Visually Confused Words