aerosolize

[ air-uh-saw-lahyz, -so- ]

verb (used with object)

, aer·o·sol·ized, aer·o·sol·iz·ing.

1. to disperse or discharge as an aerosol:

   a liquid that is too thick to aerosolize;

   techniques that aerosolize the fuel prior to combustion.

2. Physiology, Pathology. to release (the droplets, or fine particles, within one’s respiratory system) into the air as part of the process of talking, breathing, whistling, coughing, sneezing, etc.:

   Even when you sing, you’re aerosolizing particles from your respiratory tract.

   With every cough and sneeze, the infected person profusely aerosolizes viral pathogens.

3. to contain or pack in aerosol form:

   Now I’ve heard everything—they’ve aerosolized coffee that I can just spray into my cream.

Other Words From

• aer·o·sol·i·za·tion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of aerosolize¹

First recorded in 1940–45; aerosol + -ize

Example Sentences

Her research still needs to be peer reviewed, but Prather said she’s confident her work is on the verge of finding proof that bacteria in the water are becoming aerosolized and making people sick.

From Los Angeles Times

As the Salton Sea has become a fertilized petri dish, the prevailing winds have pushed aerosolized bacteria south to communities in the Imperial Valley where people have complained of respiratory issues.

From Los Angeles Times

The flu virus could become aerosolized when milking parlors are cleaned with high-pressure hoses.

From Science Magazine

When ready to mate, females release a plume of aerosolized alkaloids derived from the plants they ate as caterpillars.

From Science Daily

“A teeny bit is going on the body, and most of its going in the air. It’s the same with spraying an aerosolized cleaner.”

From Seattle Times