1. chemical reactions in which a substance combines with oxygen or loses electrons
Usage: chemistry; plural form

Examples

• The oxidations of metals produce rust and corrosion.
• Several oxidations occur during cellular respiration.
• The chemist studied the oxidations of organic compounds.
• These oxidations release energy in the form of heat.
• Industrial oxidations are used to manufacture many chemicals.
• The oxidations of iron and aluminum have different rates.