Neutralize

/ˈnjuːtrəlaɪz/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to counteract or cancel the effect of something.

The doctor prescribed medication to neutralize the acidity in my stomach.

to render something ineffective or harmless.

The researchers found a way to neutralize the toxic chemical in the water supply.

to eliminate or counterbalance an opposing force or influence.

The army was able to neutralize the enemy's defenses with a successful airstrike.

From Latin 'neutralis' meaning 'of a neutral character'.

neutralize a threat

To eliminate or diminish a potential danger.

neutralize influence

To reduce the impact or effectiveness of someone's power.

neutralize differences

To reconcile or bridge gaps between differing opinions.

counteract

To act against something in order to reduce its force or neutralize it.

nullify

To make something void or of no effect.

cancel

To revoke or annul something.

To take out

They had to neutralize the enemy's forces.

To chill out

Just neutralize the tension in the room.