Fluoridizing

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. The incorporation of fluoride into various substances is intended to strengthen dental enamel while minimizing the risk of cavities
2. This action involves the addition of fluoride compounds to enhance the protective qualities of dental products and prevent tooth decay
3. The process of introducing fluoride into substances to reinforce tooth enamel and reduce decay

Etymology: "Fluoridizing" is the present participle of "fluoridize," which means adding fluoride to something, most often drinking water or toothpaste. The verb is built from "fluoride" and the suffix "-ize," which turns a noun into a verb meaning to treat or cause to become something. "Fluoride" itself comes from "fluor," the Latin word for "flow," which was applied to the mineral fluorite because it was used as a flux that helped metals and ores melt and run together. The element was named in the 19th century, and "fluoride" is the name of its compounds. The suffix "-ize" comes from Greek "-izein," and English has used it since the Middle Ages to form verbs such as "modernize" and "organize."