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picowave

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˈpɪkoʊweɪv//

KK: /ˈpɪkoʊweɪv/

transitive verb
Definition

To use gamma rays to treat food, making it safe by killing pests like insects or worms.


Example

The food was picowaved to ensure it was free from harmful pests.


Tense Forms

Past: picowaved

Past Participle: picowaved


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever thought about how they picowave food to keep it fresh?
Sloth B
I’ve heard about it, but I’m not really sure how it works.
Sloth A
It’s interesting because it uses gamma rays to eliminate pests.
Sloth B
That sounds pretty cool! I wonder if it affects the taste.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sterilize
irradiate
sanitize
Antonyms
contaminate
infect
spoil
Root Explanation

This word originates from 'micro-' (from Greek 'mikros', meaning small) and 'wave' (from Old English 'wafian', meaning to wave or move). The term 'picowave' refers to a very small wave, often in the context of microwave technology.

Memory Tip

Think of 'micro' meaning small, and 'wave' as a movement. This helps you remember that 'picowave' refers to a very small wave.

Visually Confused Words
microwave
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