oxidize
OK-si-dyze
/ˈɒksɪdaɪz/
To combine with oxygen; in beverages, this often leads to a change in color, flavor, or spoilage.
In wine, controlled oxidation can add complexity (like in Sherry), but uncontrolled oxidation turns wine into vinegar.
The story behind the word. Early chemists believed oxygen was the essential ingredient in all acids (Greek 'oxys' means sharp or acid). While they were wrong about the acids, the name stuck for the reaction with the element.
Word relationships
- rust: Specifically refers to the oxidation of iron.
- tarnish: Specifically refers to the oxidation of silver or other metals.
- reduce: In chemistry, reduction is the opposite of oxidation (gaining electrons).
Commonly confused with
- oxygenate: Oxygenate means to supply with oxygen (like blood), while oxidize is the chemical reaction with oxygen.
Word family
- oxidation (noun): The process of oxidizing.
- oxidant (noun): A substance that causes oxidation.
Collocations
- rapidly oxidize
- prevent oxidation
- oxidized flavor
Example sentences
- "If you leave the bottle open overnight, the wine will oxidize and lose its fruity aroma." Wine spoilage.
- "Black tea is fully oxidized, which gives it a darker color compared to green tea." Chemistry of tea.
Memory hook
Oxygen is the 'Ox' that eats the flavor. Oxygen reaction.
When not to use
Avoid using for simple evaporation; oxidation is a chemical reaction, not just a loss of volume.
Fun facts
- The brown color on a sliced apple is a visible example of oxidation in action.
Related words
Explore more words
oxidation, ferment, acidify, pasteurize, spoilage, antioxidant
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