Definition of "denature" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To take away a natural characteristic or inherent property of (a thing or a person).

2. (transitive) To add something to (alcohol) that makes it unsuitable for consumption but leaves it suitable for most other purposes.

   • While you cannot drink denatured alcohol, you can still use it to remove sticker glue from most surfaces.

3. (transitive, intransitive, biochemistry) To alter its original form or state, especially of a protein, by heat, acidity etc.

4. (transitive, intransitive, biochemistry) Of double-stranded DNA, specifically to split into two single strands.

5. To combine fissile material with nonfissile material in order to prevent its use in an atomic weapon.