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

Because of the methods used, they are claimed to promote inflammation in the body and are more prone to oxidation (which degrades the quality and can produce harmful compounds). —Lisa Niven-Phillips, Vogue, 4 Apr. 2025

This material resists corrosion without verdigris oxidation, ensuring slow aging and a lasting patina. —Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 1 Apr. 2025

So while oxidation can be good, Zamora added, peroxidation is a process in which unstable molecules known as free radicals attack fats containing double bonds. —Kristen Rogers, CNN, 25 Mar. 2025

Read More: Why Your Cortisol Levels Shouldn’t Stress You Out Another potential red flag: compared to olive oil, seed oils may be more prone to oxidation and going rancid. —Matt Fuchs, TIME, 21 Mar. 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

Rhymes for oxidation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

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