Definition

Describing something that has been slowed down and had its energy reduced, often through the use of a substance that helps to moderate its movement.

Example

The particles were thermalized to ensure they interacted more effectively with the surrounding medium.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new reactor design they’re using?

Yeah, I read that it’s thermalized to improve efficiency.

That sounds really interesting! How does being thermalized help the process?

It slows down the particles, making the reactions more stable and controlled.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To convert something into a state where it is in thermal equilibrium, meaning it has reached a uniform temperature throughout.

Example

The gas was thermalized to ensure even temperature distribution before the experiment began.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how the scientists thermalized the particles in that experiment?

Yeah, that was pretty cool! I didn't know they could do that so quickly.

I know, right? It really changes how we understand energy transfer.

Root Explanation

Thermalized → It is formed from "thermal" (from Greek "thermos", meaning heat) and "-ize" (meaning to make or become). The word "thermalized" means to make something into a state of heat or to become heated.

Memory Tip

Think of 'thermal' relating to 'heat' and 'to make' something into that state — that's why thermalized means to become heated.

Visually Confused Words