detoxify

views updated May 23 2018

de·tox·i·fy / dēˈtäksəˌfī/ • v. (-fies, -fied) [tr.] remove toxic substances or qualities from: the process uses chemical reagents to detoxify the oil. ∎  (usu. be detoxified) treat (an alcoholic or drug addict) to remove the effects of drink or drugs in order to help them overcome addiction: he was twice detoxified from heroin. ∎  [intr.] abstain from drink and drugs until the bloodstream is free of toxins in order to overcome alcoholism or drug addiction. ∎  [intr.] become free of poisonous substances or qualities: you can help your body detoxify by cutting down on coffee.DERIVATIVES: de·tox·i·fi·er n.

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