alkylation

noun

al·​kyl·​ation ˌal-kə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce alkylation (audio)
: the act or process of introducing one or more alkyl groups into a compound (as to increase octane number in a motor fuel)
alkylate
ˈal-kə-ˌlāt How to pronounce alkylation (audio)
transitive verb

Examples of alkylation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Standard Oil began using the property in 1863 for crude oil distillation, reforming, cracking, alkylation, coking and asphalt production. — Kaitlin Durbin, cleveland, 17 Aug. 2022 This research ultimately will be solving how DNA alkylation damage is detected and repaired. — Kristen Griffith, baltimoresun.com/maryland/carroll, 12 Apr. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alkylation was in 1885

Rhymes for alkylation

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Browse Nearby Words

alkylating agent
alkylation
alkylbenzene
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Cite this Entry

“Alkylation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alkylation. Accessed 29 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on alkylation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about alkylation

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