Definition of the word neutralize

The word "neutralize" originated in the late 19th century from the chemical concept of neutralization. In chemistry, neutralization refers to the process of balancing the pH level of an acidic or alkaline substance by adding an opposite reactant. The prefix "neu-" in the word "neutralize" comes from the Latin word "neuter," meaning neither positive nor negative. In chemistry, the term "neutral" is used to describe a chemical substance that has a pH level of 7, which is neither acidic nor alkaline. The term "neutralize" refers to the process of transforming an acidic or alkaline substance into a neutral (pH level of 7) compound by adding an opposite reactant. The word "neutralize" has since expanded in meaning beyond chemical contexts. It is now commonly used to describe the act of nullifying, eliminating, or equalizing an opposing force, such as detoxifying a dangerous substance, counteracting the effects of a poison, or balancing opposing military forces. The roots of this meaning were perhaps inspired by the concept of balancing pH levels, in which the opposite reaction ultimately leads to a neutral state.