The word "granulate" is spelled with a "gra" followed by "nu" and then "late". The "gra" sounds like /ɡræ/ and is a combination of the consonants "g" and "r" followed by the vowel "a". The "nu" sounds like /nju/, which is a combination of the consonant "n" and the diphthong "yoo". Finally, "late" sounds like /leɪt/, with the consonant "l" followed by the diphthong "ay" and the consonant "t". Altogether, "granulate" is pronounced as /ˈɡrænyuˌleɪt/.
Granulate is a verb that refers to the process or action of breaking or grinding a substance, typically into small particles or grains. This term is commonly used in the fields of chemistry, pharmacy, and food processing.
In the context of chemistry or materials science, granulating involves converting a material into granules or granular form. This process is often carried out using machinery such as a granulator or grinder, which applies pressure or friction to break down the substance into smaller pieces. Granulation enhances the handling, flow, and dissolution properties of the material, making it easier to store, transport, or mix with other components.
In the pharmaceutical industry, granulating is an important step in the manufacturing of tablets or capsules. It involves mixing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with other excipients and then using a granulator to form uniform granules that can be compressed into tablets or filled into capsules. Granulation can improve the stability, bioavailability, and dosage uniformity of the medication.
In the field of food processing, granulating refers to the process of breaking down food ingredients or additives into granular form. This can be done for various purposes, such as improving the texture, solubility, or dispersion of the ingredient in the final food product.
Overall, granulate describes the action of converting a substance into small granules or particles through grinding, breaking, or compressing, often leading to improved properties or ease of use in various industries.
To form into grains or very small pieces; to make rough on the surface; to repair lost parts, as a wound in healing.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word granulate is derived from the Latin term granulum, meaning a little grain. The word granulate itself emerged in the early 19th century, combining the Latin root granulum with the suffix -ate, which signifies the act or process of. Therefore, granulate literally means to form into grains or to break into small grains or particles.