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sulfurize: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

C2
UK/ˈsʌlfjʊraɪz/US/ˈsʌlfəˌraɪz/

Technical/Scientific

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Quick answer

What does “sulfurize” mean?

To treat or combine with sulfur.

Audio

Pronunciation

Definition

Meaning and Definition

To treat or combine with sulfur.

In a technical context, to introduce sulfur into a compound or material, often to impart specific chemical properties or to protect against decay.

Dialectal Variation

British vs American Usage

Differences

Spelling: British English predominantly uses 'sulphurize' (with 'ph'), while American English uses 'sulfurize' (with 'f'). The underlying element is 'sulphur' (BrE) vs. 'sulfur' (AmE).

Connotations

Identical technical connotations in both varieties.

Frequency

Very low frequency in general language; slightly more common in AmE technical writing due to the global influence of American scientific publishing.

Grammar

How to Use “sulfurize” in a Sentence

[NP] sulfurize [NP] (transitive)[NP] be sulfurized (passive)

Vocabulary

Collocations

strong
to sulfurize rubbersulfurize the compoundsulfurize the metal
medium
process to sulfurizeused to sulfurizemethod for sulfurizing
weak
sulfurize effectivelysulfurize completelysulfurize rapidly

Examples

Examples of “sulfurize” in a Sentence

verb

British English

  • The chemist will sulphurize the sample to test its reactivity.
  • This process sulphurises the alloy, preventing corrosion.

American English

  • The new protocol will sulfurize the polymer efficiently.
  • They sulfurized the compound to create the desired catalyst.

adjective

British English

  • The sulphurized rubber exhibited greater elasticity.
  • A sulphurized metal coating was applied.

American English

  • The sulfurized rubber exhibited greater elasticity.
  • A sulfurized metal coating was applied.

Usage

Meaning in Context

Business

Used in industrial manufacturing reports, e.g., 'The plant will sulfurize the feedstock to improve durability.'

Academic

Common in chemistry, materials science, and chemical engineering papers describing synthesis or treatment processes.

Everyday

Virtually never used in everyday conversation.

Technical

Core term in industrial chemistry, rubber production, and petroleum refining.

Vocabulary

Synonyms of “sulfurize”

Strong

vulcanize (specifically for rubber)

Neutral

treat with sulfursulphurate

Weak

impregnate with sulfur

Vocabulary

Antonyms of “sulfurize”

desulfurizedesulphurizeremove sulfur

Watch out

Common Mistakes When Using “sulfurize”

  • Misspelling as 'sulferize' (AmE) or 'sulpherize' (BrE). Incorrect use in non-technical contexts.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is a technical term primarily used in chemistry and industrial manufacturing.

'Vulcanize' specifically refers to treating rubber with sulfur (or equivalent) to improve its strength and elasticity. 'Sulfurize' is a broader term for introducing sulfur into any material.

The standard British spelling is 'sulphurize', following the element name 'sulphur'.

No, it is almost exclusively a transitive verb; it requires a direct object (the thing being treated with sulfur).

To treat or combine with sulfur.

Sulfurize is usually technical/scientific in register.

Sulfurize: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsʌlfjʊraɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsʌlfəˌraɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.

Phrases

Idioms & Phrases

  • “No common idioms”

Learning

Memory Aids

Mnemonic

Think of 'sulfur' (the yellow element) + '-ize' (to make into). You are making something contain sulfur.

Conceptual Metaphor

PROTECTION IS ADDING A SHIELD (sulfur acts as a protective or strengthening agent).

Practice

Quiz

Fill in the gap
In the vulcanization process, they the rubber to make it more durable.
Multiple Choice

What is the primary context for the verb 'to sulfurize'?

sulfurize: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples | Lingvocore