dilute

UK: daɪˈluːt | US: daɪˈluːt

Definition
  1. vt. to make a liquid weaker or thinner by adding water or another solvent

  2. adj. (of a liquid) weakened or thinned by admixture

Structure
di <apart, away>lute <wash>
Etymology

The word "dilute" originates from Latin dilutus, the past participle of diluere, meaning "to wash away" or "dissolve." The prefix di- (a variant of dis-) signifies "apart" or "away," while lute derives from luere, meaning "to wash." This reflects the process of weakening a substance by dispersing it in a solvent, akin to "washing it away" from its original concentration. Over time, the term evolved in English to specifically describe reducing strength or thickness by admixture.

Examples
  1. The chemist will dilute the acid with water before the experiment.

  2. The juice tastes too strong; you should dilute it with some ice.

  3. Adding more solvent will further dilute the solution.

  4. The paint was diluted to achieve a lighter shade.

  5. Avoid drinking undiluted vinegar, as it may harm your throat.