homogenization

[ huh-moj-uh-nahy-zey-shuhn, hoh- ]

noun

1. the act or process of blending unlike elements:

   Industrial composting is a complex process, requiring sieves, shredders, equipment for mixing and homogenization, aeration systems, filters, scrubbers, and control systems.

2. the act or process of emulsifying, especially milk or cream:

   Whole milk is pumped into storage silos where it undergoes pasteurization, homogenization, separation, butterfat adjustment, and vitamin fortification.

3. the act or process of making something more uniform or similar:

   A major ecological dilemma stems from the homogenization of agricultural systems, namely the increased vulnerability of crops to pests, diseases, and climatic variability.

   As trends of gentrification and homogenization continue in New York, a solution is needed to preserve the individuality of the city's neighborhoods.

4. Metallurgy. the act or process of subjecting metal to high temperatures to ensure uniform diffusion of components:

   The lab is developing a computational approach to improve the homogenization and heat treatment of solid substitutional alloys.

Word History and Origins

Origin of homogenization¹

homogeniz(e) ( def ) + -ation ( def )

Example Sentences

This is precisely why documentaries centered on singular, idiosyncratic restaurants resonate so deeply, offering a glimpse of what’s being lost in the march toward homogenization.

From Salon

“I feel that in contemporary dance now, there’s too much homogenization,” she continued.

From New York Times

"It is a story of global homogenization of biodiversity by humans, which often leads to the decline of unique local species and the disruption of native ecosystem processes."

From Science Daily

Conservationists and architects are also leading a push to preserve the character of the Cyclades, which they say is at risk of being obliterated amid a real estate-driven homogenization of vacation destinations.

From New York Times

It allows the commodification of living creatures such as whales and trees, which, in turn, enables their homogenization, and therefore mindless substitution of one “service” for another.

From Scientific American