How Do You Spell DENATURED?

Pronunciation: [dˈɛnət͡ʃəd] (IPA)

The word "denatured" is spelled with the "den" prefix, followed by the root word "nature." The "a" in "nature" is pronounced as in "cat," and the stress falls on the second syllable (natyured). The suffix "-ed" is pronounced as "d" after a voiced sound, as in this case. Therefore, "denatured" is pronounced as "dee-nachured." This word is commonly used in chemistry to refer to a process of altering the properties of a substance by changing its chemical composition.

DENATURED Meaning and Definition

  1. Denatured is an adjective that refers to the alteration or modification of a substance, typically a biological or chemical compound, in such a way that its natural properties or characteristics are changed or removed. This process is often done intentionally, by subjecting the substance to various physical or chemical treatments, in order to render it unsuitable for its original purpose or to manipulate its behavior for specific uses.

    In the realm of chemistry, denatured commonly refers to the removal or destruction of the natural three-dimensional structure or conformation of a macromolecule, such as a protein or DNA, resulting in the loss of its biological activity. This can be accomplished by exposing the macromolecule to extremes of temperature, pH, or chemicals that disrupt the weak interactions holding the molecule's structure together.

    Furthermore, the term denatured is commonly associated with the modification of ethyl alcohol or ethanol, which is rendered undrinkable by adding specific substances, like methanol or denatonium, to the mixture. This process, often performed to reduce taxes on consumable alcohol, ensures that the end product is not suitable for human consumption, although it may still be used for industrial or technical purposes.

    Overall, denatured refers to the deliberate alteration of a substance's natural properties, especially as it pertains to the modification of biological or chemical compounds.

  2. Made unnatural, changed from the normal in any of its characteristics.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for DENATURED

Etymology of DENATURED

The word "denatured" is derived from the word "nature". The prefix "de-" means "remove" or "reverse", indicating that denatured refers to something that has been modified or altered in its natural state or composition. In the context of chemistry, it specifically refers to the process of rendering a substance unfit for consumption by humans or animals, usually by adding chemicals or altering its properties.

Similar spelling words for DENATURED

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