Definition of "inoculate" in English

verb

1. (transitive, immunology) To introduce an antigenic substance or vaccine into something (e.g. the body) or someone, such as to produce immunity to a specific disease.

2. (transitive, by extension) To safeguard or protect something as if by inoculation.

3. (transitive) To add one substance to another.

   • The culture medium was inoculated with selenium to investigate the rate of uptake.

4. (transitive) To graft by inserting buds.

   • to inoculate the bud of one tree or plant into another
   • to inoculate a tree

5. (figurative, transitive) To introduce into the mind (used especially of harmful ideas or principles).

   • to inoculate someone with treason or infidelity

noun

1. Synonym of inoculum.