neutralization meaning and definition

NEUTRALIZATION noun

Definition of neutralization (noun)

1. action intended to keep a country politically neutral or exclude it from a possible war
   • "the neutralization of Belgium"
   • synonyms: neutralisation
2. a chemical reaction in which an acid and a base interact with the formation of a salt; with strong acids and bases the essential reaction is the combination of hydrogen ions with hydroxyl ions to form water
   • synonyms: neutralisation, neutralisation reaction, neutralization reaction
3. (euphemism) the removal of a threat by killing or destroying it (especially in a covert operation or military operation)
   • synonyms: neutralisation
4. action intended to nullify the effects of some previous action
   • synonyms: counteraction, neutralisation