definition of
neutralize

[1] #1 neutralize v. make politically neutral and thus inoffensive; "The treaty neutralized the small republic". wn

[2] #2 neutralize v. [neutralise, nullify, negate] make ineffective by counterbalancing the effect of; "Her optimism neutralizes his gloom"; "This action will negate the effect of my efforts". wn

[3] #3 neutralize v. [counteract, countervail, counterbalance] oppose and mitigate the effects of by contrary actions; "This will counteract the foolish actions of my colleagues". wn

[4] #4 neutralize v. [neutralise, liquidate, waste, knock off, do in] get rid of (someone who may be a threat) by killing; "The mafia liquidated the informer"; "the double agent was neutralized". wn

[5] #5 neutralize v. [neutralise] make incapable of military action. wn