verb
neutralize
NYOOT-ruh-lyz
verb
1
To cancel out or remove the effect of something.
"Baking soda can neutralize strong odors in the fridge."
"The vaccine helps the body neutralize the virus."
2
To make an acidic or alkaline substance chemically neutral.
"Adding lime to the soil neutralizes its acidity."
How to Use Neutralize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo cancel out an effect, or to make a substance chemically neutral.
UK vs US
British English also spells it "neutralise."
Common pairings
neutralize a threat
neutralize acid
neutralize an odor
Word Forms
neutralized past tense, neutralizes singular
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Baking soda can _____ strong odors in the fridge.
Etymology
From French neutraliser, first recorded in 1642, built from neutral plus -ize.