Definition of dilute

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< diluent

dilution >

di·lute    (d-lt, d-) KEY 

TRANSITIVE VERB:
di·lut·ed, di·lut·ing, di·lutes

1. To make thinner or less concentrated by adding a liquid such as water.
2. To lessen the force, strength, purity, or brilliance of, especially by admixture.
3. To decrease the value of (shares of stock) by increasing the total number of shares.

ADJECTIVE:

Weakened; diluted.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Latin dluere, dlt- : d-, dis-, apart, away ; see dis- + -luere, to wash (from lavere; see leu()- in Indo-European roots)

OTHER FORMS:
di·luter or di·lutor(Noun), di·lutive(Adjective)