detoxify

[ dee-tok-suh-fahy ]

verb (used with object)

, de·tox·i·fied, de·tox·i·fy·ing.

1. to rid of poison or the effect of poison.
2. to treat (a person addicted to alcohol or drugs) in a detox program.

verb (used without object)

, de·tox·i·fied, de·tox·i·fy·ing.

1. to undergo detox or metabolic detoxification.

detoxify

/ diːˈtɒksɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to remove poison from; detoxicate
2. to treat (a person) for alcoholism or drug addiction

Derived Forms

• deˌtoxifiˈcation, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of detoxify¹

First recorded in 1900–05; detoxi(cate) + -fy

Example Sentences

"We now understand how these stunning colours can evolve in wild animals through a simple dial-like 'molecular switch' that 'borrows' a detoxifying protein to serve a new function," Carneiro concludes.

From Science Daily

Dermatologists say that scalp treatments promote circulation and detoxify, as well as calm and hydrate skin, all of which can help prevent dandruff, itchiness, dryness and inflammation.

From Los Angeles Times

She has fought for years to detoxify her party from the extreme views of her father, who founded National Rally’s predecessor and was convicted of trivialising the Holocaust.

From BBC

Not only did these bacteria help plants by detoxifying the root zone, but they also played a crucial role in providing nitrogen to the plants.

From Science Daily

While the party has become more radical over the years, its leaders are at the same time trying to detoxify the brand to appeal to undecided voters.

From BBC