Definition

To make something ineffective or harmless by counteracting its effects, often used in chemistry or medicine.

Example

The scientist needed to neutralize the acid before disposing of it safely.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard they found a way to neutralize the acid in that old lab.

Really? That sounds like a big breakthrough!

Yeah, it could make the area safe for everyone again.

Absolutely! It's great when science can solve these problems.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

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

Memory Tip

Think of making something 'neither one nor the other' ('neutral') and then 'making' it into that state ('-ize'). This helps you remember that to neutralize means to make something neutral.

Visually Confused Words