To oxidize is to react with oxygen, often causing rusting, burning, or other chemical changes.
From *oxide* plus the verb‑forming suffix -ize; *oxide* comes from French *oxyde* and Greek *oxys* meaning “sharp, acid.” The term was created in the late 18th century as chemistry developed modern ideas about elements.
Rusting, browning apples, and your body using food for energy are all oxidation in disguise. ‘Oxidize’ sounds scary, but without controlled oxidation in your cells, you wouldn’t be alive—or warm.
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