neutralize
UK: ˈnjuːtrəlaɪz | US: ˈnuːtrəlaɪz
vt. to make something ineffective or harmless by counteracting its effects
vt. to make a substance chemically neutral (pH 7)
vt. to declare a territory or nation nonaligned in conflict
neutralize = neutr<neither> + alize<to make>
- neutr<neither>: From Latin neuter ("neither of two"), combining ne- (not) + uter (either).
- alize<to make>: A verb-forming suffix derived from Greek -izein via French -iser, meaning "to render or become."
Etymology Origin:
The word neutralize emerged in the mid-18th century, blending the Latin root neutr- (implying balance or absence of bias) with the action-oriented suffix -ize. Originally used in chemistry to describe balancing acids and bases, it later expanded to warfare (rendering threats harmless) and politics (maintaining neutrality). The logic reflects transforming a state of "neither/nor" into an active process.
Baking soda can neutralize acidic odors in the refrigerator.
The treaty aimed to neutralize the disputed border region.
Vaccines work by helping the body neutralize viruses.
Diplomats sought to neutralize tensions between the two nations.
The scientist added a reagent to neutralize the solution.