pulverize
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpʌlvəraɪz/
KK: /ˈpʌlvəraɪz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To be ground into very small pieces or dust.
Example
The spices will pulverize when you grind them in the mortar.
Tense Forms
Past: pulverized
Past Participle: pulverized
Conversation
Did you know that some rocks can actually pulverize when you hit them hard enough?
Really? I had no idea that could happen!
Yeah, it's pretty interesting how nature works like that.
I guess that's why some places have such fine dust.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grind
crush
shatter
Antonyms
solidify
assemble
construct
transitive verb
Definition
To crush or grind something into very small pieces or powder.
Example
The chef decided to pulverize the spices to release their full flavor.
Tense Forms
Past: pulverized
Past Participle: pulverized
Conversation
Did you see how they pulverize the old building downtown?
Yes! It was impressive to watch all that debris fly.
I can't believe they managed to pulverize it so quickly.
Root Explanation
Pulverize → It is formed from "pulvis" (meaning dust) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to cause to become). The word "pulverize" means to make into dust or to crush into fine particles.
Memory Tip
Think of turning something into 'dust' ('pulvis') — that's why pulverize means to crush something into fine particles.
Visually Confused Words
unpulverize
repulverize
unpulverized
subpulverizer