oxidation

noun

ox·​i·​da·​tion ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-shən How to pronounce oxidation (audio)
1
: the act or process of oxidizing
2
: the state or result of being oxidized
oxidative
ˈäk-sə-ˌdā-tiv How to pronounce oxidation (audio)
adjective
oxidatively adverb

Examples of oxidation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The soda goes a long way in covering up any oxidation. — Emma Laperruque, Bon Appetit Magazine, 15 June 2026 Dark spots on cauliflower are caused by oxidation, not mold, and are safe to eat unless other signs of spoilage are present. — Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 11 June 2026 Exposure to warmth accelerates oxidation, the process that causes fats to go rancid. — Anne Wolf, Martha Stewart, 1 July 2026 Its sweetness is often cut by the acidity the island wines are famous for, and the savory complexity that comes from heat, oxidation, and time. — Layne Randolph, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for oxidation

Word History

Etymology

French, from oxider, oxyder to oxidize, from oxide

First Known Use

1745, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of oxidation was in 1745

Phrases Containing oxidation

Rhymes for oxidation

See All Rhymes for oxidation

Browse Nearby Words

oxidasic
oxidation
oxidation base
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Oxidation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oxidation. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

oxidation

noun
ox·​i·​da·​tion ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-shən How to pronounce oxidation (audio)
1
: the process of oxidizing
2
: the state or result of being oxidized
oxidative
ˈäk-sə-ˌdāt-iv How to pronounce oxidation (audio)
adjective

Medical Definition

oxidation

noun
ox·​i·​da·​tion ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-shən How to pronounce oxidation (audio)
1
: the act or process of oxidizing
2
: the state or result of being oxidized

More from Merriam-Webster on oxidation

Nglish: Translation of oxidation for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oxidation

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