pressurize

verb

pres·​sur·​ize ˈpre-shə-ˌrīz How to pronounce pressurize (audio)
pressurized; pressurizing

transitive verb

1
: to confine the contents of under a pressure greater than that of the outside atmosphere
especially : to maintain near-normal atmospheric pressure in during high-altitude or spaceflight (as by means of a supercharger)
2
: to apply pressure to
3
: to design to withstand pressure
pressurization noun
pressurizer noun

Examples of pressurize in a Sentence

A pump is used to pressurize the fuel. The system that pressurizes the airplane's cabin failed to operate correctly. Don't let them pressurize you to do anything you don't want to do.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Despite the leaks, the spacecraft also has ample helium to pressurize its propulsion system, NASA officials said. Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 1 Aug. 2024 The sealed and pressurized motorcycle system has a much lower thermal differential, and needs both a higher coolant flow rate and effective radiators. New Atlas, 31 Oct. 2024 The issue with the flight was that the aircraft was unable to pressurize above 10,000 feet, Delta said. Alana Wise, NPR, 19 Sep. 2024 Oxygen masks did not deploy but the plane was unable to pressurize above 10,000 feet, according to the airline. Kris Van Cleave, CBS News, 16 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pressurize 

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pressurize was in 1938

Dictionary Entries Near pressurize

Cite this Entry

“Pressurize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pressurize. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

pressurize

verb
pres·​sur·​ize ˈpresh-ə-ˌrīz How to pronounce pressurize (audio)
pressurized; pressurizing
1
: to maintain near-normal atmospheric pressure in
pressurize an airplane cabin
2
: to apply pressure to
pressurization
ˌpresh-(ə-)rə-ˈzā-shən
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on pressurize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!