Functionalizes

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To introduce specific chemical groups into a molecule to impart desired properties or reactivity within the context of chemistry and to make something operate effectively or to enable a system to perform intended tasks in general usage
2. The process of attaching functional groups to a compound in order to modify its chemical behavior; to adapt or equip an object or system so that it works properly or serves a practical purpose
3. Modifying substances by adding reactive groups that alter their characteristics and functionality; configuring a device or process so it fulfills its practical role or operates efficiently

Etymology: "Functionalize" is a plain English formation: "functional" with the verb-forming suffix "-ize" added to it. The adjective "functional" traces back through Middle English and Old French "fonctionel" to Latin "functio", "performance, execution", which itself comes from "fungi", "to perform". The verb "-ize" descends from Ancient Greek "-izein", carried into English through Late Latin "-izare" and Old French "-iser", so the whole word combines a Latin-rooted adjective with a Greek-derived suffix. The verb's meaning split into two channels that share the same core idea of making something do its job. In chemistry, it means attaching particular chemical groups to a molecule so it gains a desired property or reactivity. In general use, it means arranging a system or process so that it performs its intended task effectively. The chemical sense is the one most dictionaries record first, and it is the older of the two in technical writing.

Synonyms: operationalizes, activates, utilizes, implements, applies

Antonyms: deactivates, disables, neglects