In chemistry, a neutralization reaction is the reaction of an acid and an alkali (base) to form a salt. In the case of strong acids and bases, the essential reaction is the combination of hydrogen ions and hydroxyl ions to form water molecules.

Neu"tral*ize (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Neutralized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Neutralizing (?).] [Cf. F. neutraliser.]

1.

To render neutral; to reduce to a state of neutrality.

So here I am neutralized again. Sir W. Scott.

2. Chem.

To render inert or imperceptible the peculiar affinities of, as a chemical substance; to destroy the effect of; as, to neutralize an acid with a base.

3.

To destroy the peculiar or opposite dispositions of; to reduce to a state of indifference inefficience; to counteract; as, to neutralize parties in government; to neutralize efforts, opposition, etc.

Counter citations that neutralize each other. E. Everett.

 

© Webster 1913.