First Known Use: 1603
Dictionary
irradiate
verb ir·ra·di·ate \i-ˈrā-dē-ˌāt\
: to expose (someone or something) to radiation
ir·ra·di·at·edir·ra·di·at·ing
Full Definition of IRRADIATE
transitive verb
1
a : to cast rays of light upon : illuminate b : to enlighten intellectually or spiritually c : to affect or treat by radiant energy (as heat); specifically : to treat by irradiation
2
: to emit like rays of light : radiate <irradiating strength and comfort>
intransitive verb
archaic : to emit rays : shine
— ir·ra·di·a·tive \-ˌā-tiv\ adjective
— ir·ra·di·a·tor \-ˌā-tər\ noun
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Origin of IRRADIATE
Latin irradiatus, past participle of irradiare, from in- + radius ray
Related to IRRADIATE
Rhymes with IRRADIATE
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IRRADIATE Defined for Kids
irradiate
verb ir·ra·di·ate \i-ˈrā-dē-ˌāt\
ir·ra·di·at·edir·ra·di·at·ing
Definition of IRRADIATE for Kids
1
: to cast rays of light on
2
: to treat by exposure to radiation (as X-rays)
Medical Dictionary
irradiate
transitive verb ir·ra·di·ate \ir-ˈād-ē-ˌāt\
ir·ra·di·at·edir·ra·di·at·ing
Medical Definition of IRRADIATE
: to affect or treat by radiant energy (as heat); specifically : to treat by exposure to radiation (as ultraviolet light or gamma rays)
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