vulcanize

[ vuhl-kuh-nahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, vul·can·ized, vul·can·iz·ing.

1. to treat (rubber) with sulfur and heat, thereby imparting strength, greater elasticity, durability, etc.
2. to subject (a substance other than rubber) to some analogous process, as to harden it.

vulcanize

/ ˈvʌlkəˌnaɪz /

verb

1. to treat (rubber) with sulphur or sulphur compounds under heat and pressure to improve elasticity and strength or to produce a hard substance such as vulcanite
2. to treat (substances other than rubber) by a similar process in order to improve their properties

vulcanize

/ vŭl′kə-nīz′ /

1. To harden rubber by combining it with sulfur or other substances in the presence of heat and pressure. Vulcanization gives rubber strength, resistance, and elasticity.

Derived Forms

• ˈvulcanˌizer, noun
• ˌvulcaniˈzation, noun
• ˈvulcanˌizable, adjective

Other Words From

• vulcan·iza·ble adjective
• vulcan·i·zation noun
• vulcan·izer noun
• non·vulcan·ized adjective
• self-vulcan·izing adjective
• semi·vulcan·ized adjective
• un·vulcan·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of vulcanize¹

First recorded in 1820–30; Vulcan + -ize

Example Sentences

The pieces of vulcanized rubber track were produced at a factory in northern Italy and workers have been laying them down at Stade de France, the national stadium hosting track events.

From Seattle Times

Those on the ice have eased up during the lull in play, probably not ready for vulcanized rubber flying their way.

From Seattle Times

The purple pieces of vulcanized rubber track being produced at a factory in northern Italy will be run on by the world’s fastest athletes at the Paris Olympics.

From Seattle Times

Players score by using hockey sticks to maneuver a puck made of vulcanized rubber into the opposing team’s goal.

From Seattle Times

And there are a couple of Swiss goalies who, once they are done picking shards of vulcanized rubber from their teeth, would attest to the Canadians’ offensive prowess.

From Washington Post