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 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.
Approximately 20,000 bottles of the triglyceride-lowering drug icosapent ethyl were recalled because oxidation is causing the capsules to leak. Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 5 Feb. 2026 Research that investigated elderberry juice's effect on the gut microbiome also looked into its effect on fat oxidation, or the body's burning of fat. Julia Landwehr, Health, 3 Feb. 2026 When the compositions aren’t foiled, the chemicals break down the fabric even further, facilitating oxidation and the subsequent development of radiant green coats. Theo Belci, Artforum, 1 Feb. 2026 What's super smart about the package is that there's an air-tight, three-stage oxygen barrier system to prevent oxidation. Lily Wohlner, Allure, 1 Feb. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Oxidation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oxidation. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

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 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

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