saponify
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /səˈpɒnɪfaɪ/
KK: /səˈpɒnɪfaɪ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To undergo a chemical process where fats or oils are converted into soap and glycerin, usually by the action of an alkali.
Example
When heated with lye, the oils will saponify, creating soap.
Tense Forms
Past: saponified
Past Participle: saponified
Conversation
Have you ever tried making soap at home?
No, but I heard it can be fun and creative.
Yeah, and the best part is watching the ingredients saponify over time.
That sounds really interesting! I might give it a try.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
react
Antonyms
remain
transitive verb
Definition
To change a fat or oil into soap through a chemical process.
Example
The process to saponify the oils requires careful measurement of the ingredients.
Tense Forms
Past: saponified
Past Participle: saponified
Conversation
Have you ever tried to saponify oils at home?
No, but I've heard it's a fun project!
It really is! You just need to know how to saponify the right ingredients.
Root Explanation
Saponify → It is formed from "sapo" (meaning soap) and "-ify" (meaning to make or to cause to become). The word "saponify" means to make soap or to convert into soap.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'soap' ('sapo') and remember that 'saponify' means to make something into soap.
Visually Confused Words
sanify
stonify
somnify
pontify