oxidation

noun

ox·​i·​da·​tion ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-shən 

1

: the act or process of oxidizing

2

: the state or result of being oxidized

oxidative

ˈäk-sə-ˌdā-tiv 

adjective

oxidatively adverb

Examples of oxidation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

However, the fat in butter is susceptible to going rancid, a result of oxidation that shifts the structure of the fat molecules and affects flavor, smell, texture, and color. —Annie Peterson, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Jan. 2025

This change in color that occurs in many different fruits, including apples, pears, and peaches, is a natural process called oxidation. —Stacey Lastoe, Southern Living, 9 Oct. 2024

Harmful Compounds Seed oils are highly refined and prone to oxidation at high temperatures. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 22 Jan. 2025

Those who live by the beach or in a very humid climate can end up with a rusty appliance if the metal is scratched and subsequently interacts with the elements, which can lead to oxidation, Willatt explains. —Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 9 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, from oxider, oxyder to oxidize, from oxide

First Known Use

1745, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing oxidation

• beta-oxidation
• oxidation-reduction
• oxidation state
• re-oxidation

Kids Definition

oxidation

noun

ox·​i·​da·​tion ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-shən 

1

: the process of oxidizing

2

: the state or result of being oxidized

oxidative

ˈäk-sə-ˌdāt-iv 

adjective

Medical Definition

oxidation

noun

ox·​i·​da·​tion ˌäk-sə-ˈdā-shən 

1

: the act or process of oxidizing

2

: the state or result of being oxidized