Pronunciation: [kˈɑːbəlˌa͡ɪz] (IPA) 
The word "carbolize" is spelled with a "c" and "o" after the first "r" due to its Greek roots. The "c" makes a "k" sound in this word, and the "o" is pronounced as "uh," giving us the phonetic transcription /ˈkɑːbəlaɪz/. The word refers to the process of treating or saturating with carbolic acid. Although not commonly used in modern language, "carbolize" provides insight into the history and development of the medical field.
Carbolize is a verb with multiple meanings depending on the context. In medicine and chemistry, it refers to the process of treating or converting a substance or material with carbolic acid or phenol. Carbolic acid, also known as phenol, is a powerful antiseptic and disinfectant compound with a distinct, sweet odor. Carbolizing a substance involves saturating it with carbolic acid or applying it to the surface to eliminate or inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms.
Carbolize can also have a broader meaning in industry or manufacturing, where it refers to the process of treating various materials such as wood, fabrics, or metals with a solution containing carbolic acid or similar derivatives. This treatment is intended to enhance the resistance of the material against decay, rotting, or pest infestations, thereby prolonging their lifespan.
Additionally, carbolize may be used metaphorically to describe the act of strengthening or fortifying something, similar to the process of treating materials with carbolic acid. It implies the enhancement or reinforcement of an object, an idea, or a concept to make it more resistant, enduring, or effective.
Overall, carbolize typically describes the act of treating substances or materials with carbolic acid or its derivatives for various purposes, including disinfection, preservation, and fortification.
To mix with or add carbolic acid, or phenol.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word carbolize is derived from the combining form carbo- which comes from the Greek word karbos meaning coal or charcoal. The suffix -ize is added to make it a verb, meaning to treat with or convert into coal or charcoal.
