Definition

To make rubber stronger and more durable by mixing it with sulfur and heating it under pressure.

Example

The factory uses a special process to vulcanize the rubber for better performance.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard they vulcanize rubber to make it stronger.

Yeah, it helps improve its durability significantly.

That's interesting! I didn't know heat and pressure were involved.

Exactly, it’s a fascinating process for making tires and other products.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vulcanize → It is derived from 'Vulcan' (the Roman god of fire and metalworking) and the suffix '-ize' (meaning to make or to cause to become). The term 'vulcanize' refers to the process of treating rubber with heat and sulfur to improve its strength and elasticity, akin to the transformative power of fire associated with the god Vulcan.

Memory Tip

Imagine the god of fire, Vulcan, transforming rubber into something stronger and more elastic — that's how vulcanize means to make rubber better.

Visually Confused Words