Definitions

1. verb

to undergo self-sustaining oxidation, especially of fats and oils, often resulting in spoilage or rancidity

“The oil autoxidized quickly when exposed to heat and air.”

2. verb, transitive

to cause (a substance) to undergo self-sustaining oxidation, especially of fats and oils

“The heat autoxidized the oil, causing it to turn rancid.”

3. noun

the process of undergoing self-sustaining oxidation, especially of fats and oils

“The autoxidization of the oil caused the food to spoil.”