v.
Pronunciation: ' ak-t ə - ˌ v ā t
Function: verb
Inflected Form: -vat · ed ; -vat · ing
Date: 1626
transitive verb : to make active or more active: as a (1) : to make (as molecules) reactive or more reactive (2) : to convert (as a provitamin) into a biologically active derivative b : to make (a substance) radioactive c : to treat (as carbon or alumina) so as to improve adsorptive properties d (1) : to set up or formally institute (as a military unit) with the necessary personnel and equipment (2) : to put (an individual or unit) on active duty
intransitive verb : to become active
– ac · ti · va · tion \ ˌ ak-t ə - ' v ā -sh ə n \ noun
– ac · ti · va · tor \ ' ak-t ə - ˌ v ā -t ə r \ noun