Pronunciation: [ɪɹˈe͡ɪdɪˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "irradiate" is spelled with two "r"s because the first "r" is pronounced as a consonant, while the second "r" is silent. The IPA phonetic transcription of "irradiate" is /ɪˈreɪdi.eɪt/, indicating that the "r" sound in the beginning of the word is pronounced as a consonant. It is important to understand the correct spelling of words in order to communicate effectively in writing and avoid confusion or misunderstandings.
The term "irradiate" has multiple denotations, each pertaining to distinct fields of study and application. In the context of physics and technology, to "irradiate" refers to the process of exposing an object or substance to radiation, typically in the form of electromagnetic waves or particles. This exposure is often carried out for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, such as in medical imaging or cancer treatment, where targeted beams are used to irradiate specific areas of the body. In this context, irradiation can encompass processes like radiotherapy, X-ray imaging, or the use of radioactive isotopes.
"IRRADIATE" is also used in botany and agriculture, where it describes the act of exposing plants or seeds to a controlled dosage of radiation. This technique, called irradiation or radiation breeding, is aimed at inducing genetic variations in crops or pests, with the objective of improving characteristics or introducing sterility.
Furthermore, the term can also pertain to the field of chemistry, where "irradiate" signifies the application of light, heat, or energy to a chemical compound, often to initiate or accelerate a chemical reaction. These reactions can lead to the synthesis or decomposition of compounds, and "irradiate" is utilized to express the act of subjecting a substance to such energy.
Lastly, "irradiate" has a metaphorical connotation as well. It can indicate the act of illuminating or enlightening with knowledge, ideas, or enthusiasm. In this sense, it indicates the process of spreading or emitting light, both literally and figuratively, to instill understanding or enthusiasm in someone or something.
To dart rays of light into; to adorn with lustre; to emit rays of light; to illuminate the mind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "irradiate" is derived from the Latin word "irradiare", which combines the prefix "ir-" (meaning "in", "into", or "on") and the verb "radiare" (meaning "to shine" or "to emit rays").
