Definitions

1. verb

to convert into carbon, especially through burning or heating in the absence of air, often resulting in a black residue

“The fire will carbonize the wood, leaving it charred and brittle.”

2. verb

to convert into a substance containing carbon, especially through a chemical reaction

“The process of carbonizing sugar creates a range of products, including activated charcoal.”

3. verb

to burn or char something so that it turns black and brittle

“The sun will carbonize the leaves, leaving them dry and crinkly.”