mineralize

verb

min·​er·​al·​ize
ˈmin-rə-ˌlīz,
ˈmi-nə- How to pronounce mineralize (audio)
mineralized; mineralizing

transitive verb

1
: to transform (a metal) into an ore
2
a
: to impregnate or supply with minerals or an inorganic compound
b
: to convert into mineral or inorganic form
3
mineralizable
ˌmin-rə-ˈlī-zə-bəl
ˌmi-nə- How to pronounce mineralize (audio)
adjective
mineralization
ˌmin-rə-lə-ˈzā-shən
ˌmi-nə- How to pronounce mineralize (audio)
noun
mineralizer
ˈmin-rə-ˌlī-zər
ˈmi-nə- How to pronounce mineralize (audio)
noun

Examples of mineralize 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.
Carbon mineralization is familiar, but many competing solutions require capturing and concentrating the CO2, then transporting and pumping it underground to mineralize. Mark Le Dain, Forbes, 3 Oct. 2024 For example, during the third stage, the roots of the canine teeth are fully mineralized and one part of the humerus fuses. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 17 Sep. 2024 When CiCLO® fabric ends up in a landfill with ample moisture and microorganisms, these biodegradable spots are activated, allowing the fabric to mineralize at rates comparable to natural fibers like wool. Sj Studio, Sourcing Journal, 10 Sep. 2024 In other Burgess Shale fossils, abundant ions and reactive compounds that are typically found in gut tissue cause digestive structures to mineralize more quickly than the rest of the body, and thereby retain more of their original shapes. Mindy Weisberger, CNN, 24 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for mineralize 

Word History

First Known Use

1655, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mineralize was in 1655

Dictionary Entries Near mineralize

Cite this Entry

“Mineralize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mineralize. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

mineralize

transitive verb
min·​er·​al·​ize
variants also British mineralise
mineralized also British mineralised; mineralizing also British mineralising
: to impregnate or supply with minerals or an inorganic compound
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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