chelate
verb/ˈkiːleɪt/
Frequency rank: #19,778 most common English word
Meaning
To bind a metal ion by forming a stable ring structure with a chelating agent.
Example sentence
The chemist used a special compound to chelate the heavy metals and remove them from the water supply.
Synonyms & related words
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 19,701–19,800
- cyanosisA bluish discoloration of the skin caused by insufficient oxygen in the blood.
- lysosomeA membrane-bound organelle in cells that contains digestive enzymes to break down waste materials and cellular debris.
- misdeeda wicked or illegal act; wrongdoing.
- pistilThe female reproductive organ of a flower, consisting of the stigma, style, and ovary.
- anaphoraA rhetorical device in which the same word or phrase is repeated at the beginning of successive clauses or lines.
- corundumA very hard mineral (aluminum oxide) that forms gems such as rubies and sapphires.
- dipolarHaving two poles or opposite charges separated in space.
- dustpana flat-bottomed scoop held on the floor to collect swept-up dirt or debris
- exasperateto irritate or frustrate someone intensely
- superclassa class from which other classes are derived; a parent class in a hierarchy.