Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
inactivate
verb
/ɪnˈæktɪveɪt/
Definition
To make something inactive or to cause it to cease functioning.
Examples
- The vaccine can inactivate the virus, preventing its spread.
- Researchers work to inactivate harmful cells in laboratory settings.
- Heat treatment is used to inactivate bacteria in food processing.
Meaning
Inactivate refers to the process of rendering something inoperative or ineffective. This could apply to cells, enzymes, or mechanisms that are typically active but have had their activity reduced or halted.
Synonyms
- Deactivate
- Disable
- Nullify
- Suppress
