neutralize

6 definitions • 10 examples

to make a substance neutral (= not an acid or an alkali):

Acidity in soil can be neutralized by spreading lime on it.

A baking soda bath neutralizes acidic bodily fluids and makes your skin feel silky smooth.

to stop something or someone from having an effect:

Antibodies neutralize viruses and other infectious agents.

The aerial bombardments have neutralized the threat of artillery attacks on allied ground forces.

Judo focuses on neutralizing opponents by throwing and pinning them to the floor.

(especially of a military force or government) to kill someone:

Pentagon generals will say U. S. soldiers neutralized opposition forces.

There was no question the state security council had wanted its opponents killed when it used words like "eliminate" and "neutralize".

in cycling or motor racing, to stop a race from continuing for a time:

The fourth stage of the race was neutralized between mile 46 and mile 67.

to produce an effect that removes the effect of something else:

Raising the sales tax will neutralize the tax cut.

to cause a substance to be neither an acid nor a base:

Acid in soil can be neutralized.